The Pathankot Police District in Punjab concluded a remarkably active year in 2023, marked by a stringent crackdown on the narcotics trade. Under the leadership of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh, the force demonstrated zero tolerance towards drug peddling, resulting in a significant number of cases and arrests.
A Year of Intense Anti-Drug Operations
The statistics from 2023 paint a clear picture of the police's relentless efforts. Throughout the year, the Pathankot Police registered a staggering 444 First Information Reports (FIRs) specifically under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This vigorous legal action led to the arrest of 751 individuals allegedly involved in the illicit drug trade. The police also achieved a high conviction rate in the courts, securing punishments for 146 accused persons involved in these drug-related crimes.
Beyond arrests, the operations yielded substantial seizures of contraband. The police confiscated a large quantity of narcotics, including 131.5 kilograms of heroin. Additionally, they recovered 237 kilograms of poppy husk, 81.5 kilograms of ganja (cannabis), and over 67,000 intoxicant tablets and capsules. The financial proceeds of this illegal trade were also targeted, with authorities recovering more than Rs 41.5 lakh in drug money and impounding 61 vehicles used in smuggling activities.
Targeting the Supply Chain and Organized Networks
The police strategy extended beyond street-level peddlers to disrupt the entire supply chain. A major focus was placed on apprehending key suppliers and distributors. In a significant blow to organized drug networks, the police arrested 19 proclaimed offenders (POs) and 11 bail jumpers (PAs) who were evading court proceedings in NDPS cases. Furthermore, action was taken under the stringent Prevention of Illicit Traffic in NDPS Act (PIT-NDPS), with 16 individuals detained to prevent them from continuing their illegal activities.
SSP Khakh emphasized that the crackdown was comprehensive, targeting every link in the chain from international smuggling to local distribution. The police worked on specific intelligence to intercept drug consignments, often smuggled from across the border, before they could reach consumers in Punjab and other states. The recovery of such a large heroin haul indicates a focus on stopping high-value, dangerous narcotics from circulating in the region.
Broader Law and Order Achievements
While the anti-narcotics campaign was a highlight, the Pathankot Police's annual performance covered all aspects of law and order. The district witnessed a generally peaceful year concerning communal harmony, with no major incidents reported. In the realm of property crimes, the police solved 72 out of 86 reported snatching incidents, achieving a solid clearance rate. Their effectiveness in tackling robbery was even more pronounced, with 23 out of 24 robbery cases solved.
The police also addressed other serious crimes vigorously. They registered 13 cases under the Arms Act and solved 10 of them, taking illegal firearms off the streets. The fight against cybercrime saw 84 cases registered and 49 solved. Notably, the force maintained a strong stance against corruption, registering 11 vigilance cases against its own personnel where wrongdoing was found, ensuring accountability within the ranks.
SSP Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh credited the successful year to the hard work and dedication of the entire police force, from officers to constables. He reiterated the department's unwavering commitment to public safety and its continued resolve to combat the drug menace, which remains a top priority for the Punjab Police. The data from 2023 sets a benchmark for continued vigilance and action in the district.
