In a significant move against drug trafficking, the Amritsar police destroyed a large quantity of seized contraband at a crematorium on the outskirts of the city on Wednesday. The disposed items included over 200 kilograms of various narcotics such as heroin, opium, and poppy husk, along with thousands of bottles of codeine-based cough syrups.
Details of the Disposal Operation
The operation was conducted under the supervision of senior police officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Harpal Singh. The contraband was destroyed in a high-temperature incinerator at the crematorium to ensure complete elimination. This process is part of the standard procedure for disposing of seized drugs to prevent them from re-entering the market.
According to police records, the destroyed drugs were seized in multiple operations over the past few months. The haul included approximately 50 kg of heroin, 100 kg of opium, and 70 kg of poppy husk, in addition to 5,000 bottles of codeine-based cough syrups. The total estimated street value of the destroyed contraband is around Rs 50 crore.
Impact on Drug Trafficking
Police officials stated that this disposal drive sends a strong message to drug peddlers and traffickers operating in the region. DCP Harpal Singh said, "This is a clear signal that the police are committed to eradicating the drug menace from our society. We will continue to crack down on illegal drug trade and ensure that seized contraband is disposed of safely and securely."
The Amritsar police have been intensifying their efforts to combat drug abuse, with regular raids and arrests. In the last year, the police have registered over 500 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and arrested more than 700 individuals involved in drug trafficking.
Community Response
Local residents and community leaders have welcomed the police action. Many expressed hope that such measures would help curb the rising drug abuse among youth in the city. A local social worker, Gurmeet Singh, said, "This is a positive step. We need more such actions to make our city drug-free. The police should also focus on rehabilitation of addicts."
The police have also launched awareness campaigns in schools and colleges to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse. They are encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking.
This disposal operation is part of a larger statewide initiative to destroy seized narcotics. Similar drives have been conducted in other districts of Punjab, reflecting the government's zero-tolerance policy towards drugs.
