4,652 drug peddlers arrested as anti-drug campaign intensifies

As part of an intensified campaign by the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (HSNCB) and district police to dismantle drug trafficking networks, the Haryana Police registered 3,051 cases against drug peddlers between January 1 and November 30, 2024, resulting in 4,652 arrests.

Drug seizures in 2024

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Commercial quantity: 411

Intermediate quantity: 1,808

Small quantity: 832

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Anti-drug drive

Total cases registered: 3,051

Arrests made: 4,652

Habitual offenders detained: 63 (PIT NDPS Act)

Village watchdogs appointed: 5,150

Major drug traffickers arrested: 841

In a bid to curb repeat offences, preventive detention action under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PITNDPS Act) was taken against 63 habitual offenders during the year. “Haryana Police has adopted an effective strategy to break the drug supply chain,” said Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur.

Kapur said while 326 commercial-quantity cases were registered in 2023, the number rose to 411 cases in 2024, leading to action against 841 major drug traffickers. To speed up convictions, the time limit for receiving forensic reports from the Forensic Science Lab (FSL) has been reduced to 15 days. “This will not only expedite trials but also increase conviction rates,” he added.

The Haryana Police emphasised the role of community involvement in addressing drug abuse. Gram Praharis and Ward Praharis were appointed in 5,150 villages to monitor drug activities, assist addicts in quitting drugs and create awareness.

According to Kapur, the Namak Lota campaign has led to a 15% decrease in small-quantity NDPS cases compared to 2023. The campaign focused on community awareness and rehabilitation, encouraging small offenders to quit drugs.

Highlighting the success of the Drug-Free Haryana Campaign, OP Singh, head of the HSNCB, said, “Community participation was crucial in spreading awareness about the ill effects of drugs through cultural activities, sports and interactive sessions.” He added that the Nashamukt Bharat Pakhwada reached lakhs of people across the state in just 15 days.

Viewing drug addiction as a health challenge, the Haryana Police collaborated with the Health Department to identify addicts and ensure their treatment at rehabilitation centres. Surveys conducted in 2024 helped identify individuals needing assistance, offering them a chance to break free from addiction.