In a significant operation against drug trafficking, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have demolished the houses of two alleged drug peddlers and seized narcotics worth approximately Rs 3 crore over a span of 12 days. The crackdown, which took place in various districts, underscores the region's intensified efforts to combat the drug menace.
Demolition of Properties
The homes of two identified drug peddlers were razed in separate incidents. In the first case, a house belonging to a notorious drug dealer in the Rajouri district was demolished using bulldozers. The second demolition occurred in the Kathua district, targeting the residence of another accused. These actions were carried out under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which allows for the attachment and disposal of properties acquired through illicit drug trade.
Seizure of Contraband
Over the 12-day period, security forces and police conducted multiple raids across the region, leading to the confiscation of a substantial quantity of narcotics. The seized items included heroin, charas, opium, and other psychotropic substances, with an estimated street value of Rs 3 crore. Additionally, cash and vehicles used in the trafficking were also impounded.
Coordinated Efforts
The operations were a joint effort by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and other security agencies. Officials stated that the demolitions and seizures are part of a larger strategy to dismantle the drug network operating in the Union Territory. They emphasized that such measures serve as a deterrent to others involved in the illegal drug trade.
Legal Framework
The demolition of properties under the NDPS Act is a legal recourse aimed at crippling the financial backbone of drug cartels. Authorities have registered cases against the accused under relevant sections of the law, and investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the syndicate.
Community Impact
Local residents have expressed mixed reactions to the demolitions. While some support the government's stringent actions, others have raised concerns about the lack of due process. However, officials maintain that all procedures have been followed as per the law, and the actions are necessary to protect the youth from the scourge of drug addiction.
The crackdown is expected to continue, with authorities vowing to leave no stone unturned in eradicating drug trafficking from the region.
