In a significant blow to narcotics networks, the Punjab Police conducted a massive coordinated operation across the state on Saturday, leading to the arrest of 153 alleged drug peddlers. The intensive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) also saw the registration of 132 First Information Reports (FIRs) and the recovery of substantial quantities of drugs and cash.
Massive Haul of Narcotics and Cash Seized
The state-wide drive, which lasted from 11 am to 3 pm, resulted in the seizure of a large cache of contraband. According to police officials, the recovered items included 1.5 kilograms of heroin, 1 kilogram of opium, 500 grams of ganja (cannabis), and 5 kilograms of poppy husk. Furthermore, the police confiscated 1,310 intoxicant tablets and capsules. Alongside the drugs, cash amounting to Rs 32,000, believed to be proceeds from the illicit trade, was also recovered during the raids.
Operation Details and State-Wide Deployment
This extensive operation marked the 294th day of the Punjab government's sustained "Yudh Nashian Virudh" (War Against Drugs) campaign. The CASO was executed on the direct directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.
Police teams targeted 494 identified drug hotspots spanning all 28 police districts of Punjab. Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla, who supervised the entire operation, stated that more than 700 dedicated police teams were deployed. These teams, comprising over 5,000 police personnel, functioned under the supervision of 162 gazetted officers.
As part of the search, police personnel thoroughly checked public places known for drug activity. This included scrutiny of 173 bus stands and 120 railway stations across the state to intercept the movement of drugs and peddlers.
Sustained Political Will and Monitoring
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has issued clear directives to all Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners, and Senior Superintendents of Police to intensify their efforts with the goal of making Punjab a drug-free state. Demonstrating the government's commitment, a five-member cabinet sub-committee has been constituted to closely monitor the anti-drug campaign.
This high-level committee is headed by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and has been tasked with overseeing and reviewing the progress of the "Yudh Nashian Virudh" drive across Punjab to ensure its effectiveness and sustained momentum.
