Police in Anantnag on Wednesday said they have registered 345 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and arrested 372 alleged drug peddlers during the first six months of 2026 as part of an intensified campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse.
According to the police, more than 440 kilograms of narcotic substances were seized in multiple operations conducted across the district, while cash amounting to Rs 27.53 lakh, believed to be proceeds from the illicit drug trade, was recovered from the accused.
As part of the action against assets linked to narcotics trafficking, properties worth nearly Rs 50 crore were attached in 30 cases under relevant legal provisions. In addition, 20 illegally acquired properties valued at around Rs 20 crore were demolished for their alleged links to proceeds from the drug trade.
Police also destroyed around 2,000 kilograms of seized narcotic substances after completing the required legal formalities. Illegal cultivation of narcotic crops spread over more than 260 marlas of land was eradicated during the period.
Officials further said that over 260 marlas of government land allegedly encroached upon by drug peddlers were retrieved. Several special enforcement actions were also taken, including the arrest of female drug peddlers and seven women allegedly involved in illegal narcotic cultivation. Legal proceedings were initiated against seven government employees found involved in drug-related cases.
Under preventive measures, six alleged drug peddlers were detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act. Authorities also cancelled 24 driving licences and 16 vehicle registration certificates in connection with narcotics-related offences.
To strengthen enforcement, police conducted 203 Narco-Cordon and Search Operations (Narco-CASOs) across the district. A joint inspection of 214 medical shops was also carried out with the concerned departments, during which 17 violations were detected and legal action was initiated.
Police said 96 investigating officers handling NDPS cases were trained at the District Police Office, Anantnag, to enhance their knowledge of legal procedures and evidence handling.
Reiterating its commitment to eliminating the drug menace, Anantnag Police appealed to the public, particularly the youth, to cooperate by reporting drug-related activities, saying community participation remains crucial in the fight against narcotics.
