‘Our fight against drugs will continue relentlessly’
Kupwara, Jan 3: In an exclusive interview with Greater Kashmir, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary shed light on the Handwara Police’s determined efforts to combat drug trafficking in 2024.
From arresting 62 drug peddlers to seizing significant quantities of contraband and properties, the police have made remarkable strides in addressing the growing menace.
Q: SSP Choudhary, 2024 has been a crucial year for your anti-drug campaign. Can you summarise your achievements?
SSP Choudhary: Certainly. This year, we registered 30 cases under the NDPS Act and arrested 62 drug peddlers, 61 of whom are already in custody. We have also seized substantial quantities of narcotics, including 1.710 kg of charas, 454.75 grams of heroin, 465 grams of brown sugar, and 320 grams of crushed cannabis. Moreover, we confiscated six vehicles, Rs 1,050 in cash, and a digital weighing machine used in drug-related activities. These efforts underscore our commitment to eradicating this problem from the region.
Q: Alongside arrests and seizures, you have also targeted the financial aspects of drug trafficking. Could you elaborate on these measures?
SSP Choudhary: Absolutely. One of our main strategies is to dismantle the financial infrastructure of drug networks. This year, we seized a mini commercial complex with four shops valued at Rs 10,50,831, a land parcel worth Rs 11,20,000, and a Chevrolet Tavera worth Rs 8,90,000. These actions send a strong message: crime doesn’t pay.
Q: What steps have you taken to ensure offenders face legal consequences?
SSP Choudhary: Of the 30 cases registered this year, 16 have already been challaned in court, implicating 41 accused individuals. Moreover, we detained 11 habitual offenders under the PIT NDPS Act, a preventive measure to ensure they cannot continue their illegal activities while we build stronger cases against them.
Q: How important is public cooperation in combating the drug menace?
SSP Choudhary: It’s crucial. Many of our successes this year were possible because of actionable intelligence provided by vigilant citizens. I urge the community to remain proactive and report suspicious activities to the police. This fight requires collective effort.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your plans for tackling drug trafficking in 2025?
SSP Choudhary: In 2025, we aim to strengthen our intelligence network, expedite the processing of cases in court, and increase community awareness campaigns. Educating young people about the dangers of drug abuse is a priority, as prevention is as important as enforcement.
Q: Any message for the people of Handwara?
SSP Choudhary: My message is simple: this is a battle we must fight together. Law enforcement alone cannot solve this issue. Every citizen has a role to play in protecting our youth and ensuring a safe future for our community.
