Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Police has intensified its crackdown against drug traffickers by extensively invoking the provisions of the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988.
In a significant statewide action on Friday, the police successfully obtained and executed 19 preventive detention orders from the competent authority against habitual drug traffickers involved in the illegal narcotics trade, particularly ‘chitta’ and heroin.
The detained individuals are repeat and organised offenders who were continuously engaged in illicit trafficking activities and posed a serious threat to society, especially the youth of Himachal Pradesh, an official statement said.
These actions are part of a focused preventive policing strategy being adopted by the Himachal Pradesh Police, wherein sustained surveillance, intelligence gathering, backward linkage investigations and careful documentation are being systematically converted into strong Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances detention proposals.
The objective is not only to arrest offenders but also to incapacitate major traffickers and disrupt the larger drug supply networks operating in the state.
The Himachal Pradesh Police reiterated its firm zero-tolerance policy against narcotics trafficking and related criminal activities.
Strict preventive detention measures shall continue to be invoked against those who repeatedly indulge in drug-related offences despite earlier criminal action against them.
The Chief Minister has consistently encouraged active public participation, particularly from the youth, in this campaign.
Citizens have been urged to share information regarding drug trafficking and peddling through the Emergency Response Support System (Dial 112).
All such information is handled with complete confidentiality.
The police said it is committed to protecting the future of the youth and achieving the goal of a drug-free Himachal Pradesh through sustained, coordinated and uncompromising enforcement action.
(IANS)
