In a significant blow to drug trafficking networks in Haryana, the Sirsa police have seized more than three lakh tapentadol tablets worth an estimated Rs 70 lakh and detained two individuals following a targeted interception in the city. The operation, carried out by the Anti-Narcotics Cell, highlights the growing concern over prescription opioid abuse in the region.
Interception at Jagdev Singh Chowk
According to Superintendent of Police Deepak Saharan, a police team on routine patrol near Jagdev Singh Chowk flagged down a pickup vehicle loaded with parcels arriving from the Sangwan Chowki side. The vehicle's driver was identified as Rajpal, a resident of Sirsa, while the second occupant was Bharat Kumar, also known as Michael, from Prem Nagar. Suspicious of the cargo, the officers summoned Drug Control Department inspector Sunil Kumar to the scene.
Upon opening ten boxes, officials discovered 3.06 lakh tapentadol tablets. Tapentadol is a prescription opioid analgesic often misused as a recreational narcotic due to its euphoric effects. The seized consignment is believed to have been brought from Punjab's Bathinda district, a known hub for illicit pharmaceutical trade.
Suspects Fail to Produce Documents
During the inspection, the occupants could not provide valid licences or any documentation related to the medicines. The police immediately took them into custody and handed them over to drug authorities along with the entire seized stock for further legal proceedings. Superintendent Saharan stated that investigations are ongoing to trace the supply chain and identify other individuals involved in the network.
This seizure is part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking in Haryana, where authorities have intensified surveillance along inter-state borders. The state has witnessed a rise in the abuse of prescription drugs, particularly tapentadol, which is often smuggled from neighboring states.
Impact and Community Response
Local residents have expressed relief at the police action, noting that drug abuse has been a persistent problem in rural areas. The successful operation is expected to disrupt the local supply of opioids and serve as a deterrent to traffickers. Police have urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug peddling.
As per official records, tapentadol is classified as a Schedule H drug in India, requiring a prescription for legal possession. Its unauthorized sale and distribution attract severe penalties under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. The accused are likely to face charges under relevant sections of the NDPS Act.
