Kulgam, April 10: In a major crackdown against drug trafficking, Kulgam Police arrested five drug peddlers, including two involved in backward linkages, and seized a significant quantity of contraband substances in multiple operations across the district.
During naka checking at Furrah New Bypass, a police party from Police Post Mir Bazar led by Incharge PP Nisar Ahmad apprehended a suspicious individual who attempted to flee on spotting the police. Upon search, officers recovered 110 grams of charas powder-like substance, 2 grams of heroin-like substance, and ₹22,000 in cash.
The accused, identified as Danish Khurshid of Redwani, Qaimoh, was booked under relevant sections of the NDPS Act at Police Station Qazigund.
In another operation at Akhran, police apprehended one Faruk Ali, a resident of Delhi, and recovered 63.31 grams of charas and 2.03 grams of heroin-like substance from his possession.
A case has been registered and investigation is underway.
In a separate action, police intercepted one Abdul Qayoom Shah at Kurigam Railway Bridge and recovered 109 grams of charas concealed in corn husk. During further investigation, backward linkages were established, leading to the identification of two more accused from Anantnag.
Acting on warrants, police conducted searches in Sirhama area of Anantnag and recovered 1.212 kilograms of charas, thereby exposing a wider narcotics supply chain. The accused have been identified as Mohd Iqbal Rather and Mukhtar Ahmad Wagay.
Meanwhile, in a joint drive against the illegal sale of drugs, Police Station Qaimoh, in coordination with the Drug Department, inspected several medical shops in the area. Multiple violations of mandatory norms, particularly related to Schedule H medicines, were found. One establishment, RH Medical Store, was sealed on the spot for failing to maintain proper records, while others have been recommended for suspension.
Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary, reiterated the police’s commitment to eradicating the drug menace and warned of strict action against those involved in narcotics trade. He also appealed to the youth to stay away from drugs and urged the public to assist police by sharing information.
Police said sustained anti-drug operations in the district have led to multiple arrests and recovery of contraband substances in recent weeks, with investigations often uncovering wider organised networks.
