632 peddlers held, 479 cases registered so far

Under the ‘Yudh Nasheya Virudh’ campaign, the police districts — Khanna, Ludhiana Rural and SBS Nagar— under DIG Ludhiana Range have demonstrated a strong commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking.

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Between January 1 and April 3, this year, the police registered 479 cases under the NDPS Act and arrested 632 accused, reflecting the department’s unwavering resolve to eliminate the menace of drug abuse in the region.

DIG Ludhiana Range Nilambari Jagadale, accompanied by SSPs Jyoti Yadav, Ankur Gupta, and Mehtab Singh, provided details of the extensive crackdown, which has led to significant drug seizures.

As per the details provided, the confiscated narcotics include 10.63 kg of opium, 20.89 quintals of poppy husk, 5 kg of charas, 7.22 kg of ganja, 3.13 kg of heroin, 312 grams of intoxicating powder, 30 grams of ICE, and 16,465 pills. Additionally, drug money amounting to Rs 1.14 lakh was recovered, further disrupting illicit drug networks in the area.

In a stern measure against drug peddlers, the police demolished 15 illegal constructions on encroached government land, with plans to bulldoze 20 more in the coming days. The authorities concerned have also attached properties worth Rs 33, 98, 96, 230, belonging to drug traffickers, sending a strong message that crime will not pay. Beyond enforcement, the police have actively engaged communities through

awareness initiatives.

Since January 1, 954 ‘SAMPARK’ meetings have been conducted to educate the public, along with 19 sports tournaments and 555 interactions with village defence committees. These efforts, aim to deter youth from drug abuse and foster community participation in the fight against narcotics.

The campaign has also encouraged more individuals to seek rehabilitation.

As many as 47 persons were admitted to de-addiction centres, with 42 successfully rehabilitated and free from drug dependency. Notably, drug de-addiction and OOAT centres in Ludhiana Rural, SBS Nagar, and Khanna have witnessed a 50 per cent increase in patient registrations, indicating growing awareness and willingness to seek help.

DIG Jagadale said, “This multi-pronged approach—combining strict enforcement, public awareness, and rehabilitation support—reflects the police’s dedication to creating a drug-free society. The sustained efforts under the ‘Yudh Nasheya Virudh’ campaign will lead to lasting change, ensuring a safer and healthier future for Punjab’s youth.”