In a significant blow to the narcotics trade, security forces in Manipur have conducted extensive operations, destroying massive illicit poppy plantations spanning more than 600 acres across two districts. The five-day drive, which commenced on December 16, targeted the hill districts of Ukhrul and Kangpokpi, marking a major escalation in the state's campaign against drug production.
Widespread Destruction in Ukhrul District
Official sources confirmed that the bulk of the eradication took place in Ukhrul district, where approximately 559 acres of illegal poppy crops were wiped out. The operations covered a wide range of remote hill locations. Areas under the Litan Police Station, including Yaolen, Lamlai Chingphei, Shongphel, and Mullam, saw decisive action. Similarly, plantations in the Torah, Champhung, Teinem, Phalee, and Changta areas, which fall under the Somdal Police Station, were also completely destroyed.
During these raids, forces demolished 82 makeshift huts erected at the cultivation sites and seized a large quantity of poppy pods. The crackdown has also led to formal legal proceedings, with three First Information Reports (FIRs) registered in connection with the illicit activities. Authorities have stated that further legal action is currently underway.
Simultaneous Action in Kangpokpi
In a parallel operation on Saturday, security forces targeted poppy fields in Kangpokpi district. Here, 42 acres of plantations located in the hill ranges of L Simol, Jangnomphai, and SP Ngaimun were eradicated. The clearance operation led to the destruction of 20 more huts found at the sites.
Officials also confiscated and destroyed materials used for cultivation, which included 15 packets of salt, 5 kg of fertilizer, five litres of herbicide, and 5 kg of poppy seeds. This step is crucial to prevent the immediate re-cultivation of the banned crop.
Ongoing War on Drugs and Recovery of Arms
State officials emphasized that these large-scale operations are a core part of the sustained government campaign to eradicate illegal poppy cultivation and combat the pervasive drug menace in Manipur. They have affirmed that similar drives will continue aggressively in the coming days to deter such activities.
In a related development, security forces made a concerning discovery in the Imphal East district. From the Monglham Base and adjoining foothill areas under Thoubal Dam police station, they recovered one Improvised Explosive Device (IED) weighing around 9 kg. Additionally, three 12 bore live rounds and 13 fired cases of different calibres were also seized, highlighting the complex security challenges in the region beyond the narcotics trade.
The successful destruction of over 600 acres of poppy represents a substantial tactical victory for Manipur's security forces. It underscores a firm commitment to disrupting the supply chain of illegal drugs at its very source and safeguarding the youth and society from their devastating impact.
