Habit-forming drugs recovered, one arrested

Chamba police have arrested a man after a substantial quantity of habit-forming drugs was recovered from his possession during a raid.

Acting on specific information, a police team searched the house of Harmeet, son of Harvinder, on Monday. During the search, the police seized 1,469 Tapentadol tablets and 1,024 Pregabalin capsules, together valued at Rs 82,277. According to officials, Harmeet had no bills or licences to justify possession of the drugs.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the accused was actively involved in the sale and distribution of these substances to youth in various parts of Chamba district. Police said Harmeet also named several chemists and individuals who were allegedly linked to the illegal supply chain.

A case has been registered under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, under which the offence is punishable with up to five years’ imprisonment and a minimum fine of Rs 1 lakh. Further probe is underway.