SRINAGAR: Police in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have intensified their crackdown on narcotics trade, arresting four drug peddlers in separate operations in Sopore and apprehending a drug consumer in Tangmarg, officials said on Thursday.
In Sopore, a police party from Police Station Sopore intercepted three individuals in the Badambagh area during routine patrolling after they attempted to flee towards nearby orchards. A search led to the recovery of 150 bottles of Codeine-based cough syrup from their possession. The accused have been identified as Irfan Ahmad Peer, son of Khursheed Ahmad Peer; Ajaz Ahmad Mattoo, son of Gh. Nabi Mattoo; and Umer Zahoor Najar, son of Zahoor Ahmad Najar, all residents of Badambagh.
In a separate operation at Sangrama-Seer Crossing, a naka party from Police Post Putkha intercepted another suspect, identified as Majid Ashraf Khan, son of Mohammad Ashraf Khan, a resident of Peth Seer. A search resulted in the recovery of Spasmo-Proxyvon Plus capsules from his possession.
Meanwhile, in Tangmarg, police apprehended a suspected drug consumer during routine checking near the DFO Office. The individual, identified as Ikhlaq Ahmad Khatana, son of Ghulam Mohammad Khatana, a resident of Darakassi, was found carrying incriminating material linked to narcotic consumption. He was medically examined and tested positive for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), indicating recent cannabis use.
Police have registered cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in all incidents and initiated further investigation.
Authorities reiterated their zero-tolerance approach towards drug trafficking, warning that strict legal action will continue against offenders. The public has been urged to assist law enforcement by reporting drug-related activities to help curb the menace and promote a drug-free society.
