Khaira joins as AIG STF Bathinda range

Bathinda, December 6

Lakhwinder Pal Singh Khaira (PPS), who assumed charge as Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Special Task Force (STF), Bathinda range, on Thursday SAID, “Launching a crackdown on drug smugglers/smuggling would be a top priority in the coming months and merging of the anti-narcotics cell with Special Task Force (STF) would act as a catalyst in realising that goal.”

Addressing mediapersons at the STF office near the Grain Market area, Khaira said, “Under the recently issued directions by the state government, the anti-narcotics cell would be working along the STF. The decision would be beneficial when it comes to tackling the drug menace in the region. Assistance from the increased staff strength would enable us to do our job more efficiently.”

“The STF was specifically formed by the government to put curbs on drug smuggling in and out of the state. Owing to strictness by the STF, the drug menace has been controlled up to a large extent. Following a crackdown launched by the STF that led to breaking of supply chain of drugs in the state, drug addicts smartly switched to medical intoxicants. Now our target is to rein in smugglers involved in supply of medical intoxicants. It would be a challenging task as the Bathinda range comprises of three districts — Bathinda, Mansa and Shri Muktsar Sahib,” Khaira added.

Khaira exhorted the public to provide relevant information related to drug smuggling/selling in the region as it would prevent the youngsters from falling prey to the drug menace.

“While curbing drug smuggling, we would also identify addicts and ensure their treatment at drug de-addiction centres,” he added. — TNS