Bandipora, April 28: In a major push against drug trafficking under the ongoing 100-Day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, Police in Bandipora carried out a series of successful operations across Hajin, Sumbal, and Panzigam, leading to the arrest of three drug peddlers, seizure of contraband substances, attachment of immovable property, and destruction of illegal poppy cultivation.
In one of the key operations, Police Station Hajin arrested an accused identified as Mushtaq Ahmad Khan of Madwan after recovering approximately 600 grams of charas powder during routine naka checking. A case under FIR No. 58/2026 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered, and further investigation is underway.
In another significant action, the Police Station Bandipora apprehended Amir Ahmad Malla of Nowpora at Panzigam Crossing. The accused attempted to flee but was swiftly caught, and around 100 grams of charas-like substance were recovered from his possession. FIR No. 49/2026 under the NDPS Act has been registered in this regard.
Similarly, Police Station Sumbal intercepted a Maruti Suzuki Eeco (JK05H-4034) on the Sumbal–Naidkhai road and recovered approximately 300 grams of charas sticks from the vehicle. The driver, Azad Ahmad Bhat of Gundboon Naidkhai, was arrested on the spot. FIR No. 86/2026 under Sections 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered.
In a major blow to drug networks, Police Station Hajin also seized a two-storey residential property worth approximately ₹55 lakh belonging to a notorious drug peddler, Lal Din Sheikh of Hakbara. The accused is involved in multiple NDPS cases, including FIR No. 33/2015 (involving 102 kg of charas) and FIR No. 47/2023. The property was attached under Section 68 (1&2) of the NDPS Act.
Meanwhile, as part of sustained anti-narcotics efforts, a joint team of Police, Revenue, Agriculture, and Excise Departments conducted a large-scale poppy destruction drive in Shilvat Sumbal. Illegally cultivated poppy crops were identified and destroyed on the spot, and FIR No. 88/2026 under Sections 8/18 of the NDPS Act has been registered to identify those involved.
On the preventive front, a comprehensive anti-drug awareness programme was organised at Government Higher Secondary School Hajin, witnessing active participation from students and faculty. Speakers emphasised the dangers of substance abuse and encouraged youth to adopt a healthy and responsible lifestyle. Participants also pledged to stay away from drugs and spread awareness in society.
Additionally, a joint inspection of medical shops in Pethkoot was conducted in coordination with the Drug Department. Two establishments—Alshafa Medical and Hakeem Medical Hall—were sealed for violating prescribed norms. Officials confirmed that CCTV systems were installed and functional in all inspected shops, ensuring transparency and compliance.
Police have reiterated their firm commitment to eradicating the drug menace and urged the public, particularly the youth, to cooperate in building a drug-free society. – (KNS)
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