Anantnag, July 1: In a major crackdown against drug trafficking and narcotics abuse, Anantnag Police on Wednesday said it has achieved significant success under its sustained anti-drug campaign during the first six months of 2026, registering hundreds of cases, arresting drug peddlers, attaching properties worth crores, and destroying a huge quantity of seized contraband.
According to official figures, Anantnag Police registered 345 FIRs under various provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act during the January-June 2026 period. A total of 372 drug peddlers involved in narcotics trafficking and related offences were arrested as part of the intensified enforcement campaign.
Police said more than 440 kilograms of contraband substances were seized during multiple anti-narcotics operations conducted across the district. In addition, ₹27,52,976 in cash, believed to be proceeds from the illegal drug trade, was recovered from the accused.
As part of its financial crackdown on the narcotics network, properties worth nearly ₹50 crore were attached in 30 cases under relevant legal provisions. Authorities also demolished 20 illegal properties valued at around ₹20 crore, which were allegedly created using proceeds generated through drug trafficking.
In another major achievement, Anantnag Police destroyed nearly 2,000 kilograms of narcotic substances after completing all mandatory legal formalities. Illegal cultivation of narcotic crops spread over more than 260 marlas of land was also destroyed during the special drives.
Police further stated that over 260 marlas of government land encroached upon by drug peddlers was retrieved and restored during the anti-encroachment operations.
The district police also intensified action against individuals involved in drug-related crimes, including the arrest of female drug peddlers and seven female cultivators engaged in illegal narcotic cultivation. Legal proceedings were also initiated against seven government employees allegedly found involved in narcotics-related offences.
As part of preventive measures, six notorious drug peddlers were detained under the PIT NDPS Act. Authorities also cancelled 24 driving licences and 16 vehicle registration certificates (RCs) linked to narcotics-related activities.
To strengthen enforcement, Anantnag Police conducted 203 Narco-Cordon and Search Operations (Narco-CASOs) across the district to dismantle drug supply chains and prevent the movement of narcotics.
Joint inspection teams comprising police and concerned departments carried out inspections of 214 medical shops across the district. During the inspections, 17 violations were detected and legal action was initiated against the offenders.
To improve the quality of investigations, 96 Investigation Officers dealing with NDPS cases received specialised training at the District Police Office (DPO) Anantnag on legal procedures, investigation techniques and scientific handling of evidence.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to making the district drug-free, Anantnag Police appealed to the public, particularly the youth, to actively support law enforcement agencies by reporting drug-related activities. Police said public cooperation remains crucial in eliminating the menace of narcotics and safeguarding the future of society.(KNC)
