Massive Statewide Crackdown on Narcotics in Andhra Pradesh
In a significant move to combat the menace of illegal substances, the Andhra Pradesh Police, in collaboration with the anti-narcotics wing EAGLE, executed a large-scale operation named Operation Vajraprahar. This coordinated effort aimed to curb drug trafficking and marijuana cultivation across the entire state, marking a decisive step in law enforcement's ongoing battle against narcotics.
Operation Vajraprahar: Scope and Execution
The special "cordon and search" operation was launched statewide on Saturday morning, involving meticulously planned raids and inspections. Authorities targeted 94 sensitive locations spread across 88 police sub-divisions in Andhra Pradesh, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Nearly 14,800 police personnel and EAGLE officers participated in this intensive drive, conducting thorough searches and vehicle checks in various districts to disrupt illegal drug networks.
Targeted Actions and Seizures
Officials focused on 280 individuals identified as habitual offenders under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and known drug users, subjecting them to special inspections. Additionally, searches were carried out at 26 houses belonging to accused persons involved in narcotics cases, aiming to dismantle supply chains at their roots.
In a notable seizure, the Government Railway Police in Nellore confiscated 19 kilograms of ganja from the Rameswaram Special Train at Gudur Railway Station. Smaller quantities of ganja were also seized in Chittoor district and Bapatla district, leading to the arrest of three individuals. Police further seized 110 kilograms of cannabis seeds in Paderu and destroyed a cannabis plant in Nuzvid, highlighting the operation's focus on both trafficking and cultivation.
Broader Enforcement Measures
During the operation, law enforcement checked 1,856 vehicles to intercept drug movements. They also seized 238 liquor bottles, 115 litres of illicit arrack, and 1,300 litres of jaggery wash used for brewing illegal liquor, indicating a holistic approach to combating substance abuse beyond just narcotics.
Official Statement and Future Plans
EAGLE Inspector General of Police Ravi Krishna emphasized the serious threat posed by illegal drug trafficking and marijuana cultivation to society. He stated, "The Andhra Pradesh Police will continue to follow a zero-tolerance policy against drugs and intensify awareness programmes and surveillance." This underscores the commitment to sustained efforts in eradicating drug-related crimes through both enforcement and preventive measures.
Operation Vajraprahar represents a robust response to the growing challenge of narcotics, with authorities leveraging coordinated strategies and significant manpower to protect communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse. The operation's success in seizures and arrests demonstrates the effectiveness of such large-scale initiatives in disrupting illegal activities and sending a strong deterrent message.
