Punjab Police Continues Crackdown on Drug Mafia: Illegal Houses Demolished in Patiala and Rupnagar
Chandigarh, February 27, 2025: Continuing its vigorous efforts to curb the drug menace in the state, the Punjab Police, supported by the local administration, has demolished two illegal houses belonging to drug smugglers in Patiala and Rupnagar districts. This action, part of the state government’s sustained War Against Drugs, is aimed at dismantling the drug trafficking network and ensuring Punjab remains a drug-free state under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Operation in Patiala: Targeting Habitual Drug Smugglers
In Patiala, the crackdown focused on Rinky, a notorious drug smuggler with a long criminal history. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Patiala, Dr. Nanak Singh, led the operation, which resulted in the demolition of an illegally constructed house in Rodi Kut Mohalla, Patiala.
Rinky, who has been involved in the drug trade for years, has at least 10 FIRs registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act between 2016 and 2024. Despite facing multiple legal challenges, Rinky’s operations continued unabated, with his illegal house built from the profits of drug trafficking.
According to Dr. Nanak Singh, the demolition was carried out in compliance with orders from the district administration, and it sends a clear message that the Punjab Police will continue taking stern action against drug offenders. The SSP emphasized that such measures will be a part of the ongoing efforts to curb the drug menace and dismantle the infrastructure built by smugglers in Punjab.
“This is just the beginning of a continuous crackdown on drug smugglers and criminals. We will not tolerate any form of illegal construction linked to drug trafficking, and strict action will be taken against serial offenders,” said SSP Dr. Nanak Singh.
A Strong Stand in Rupnagar: Smuggler Couple’s House Demolished
In Rupnagar, another significant action was taken against drug smugglers Salim Mohammad and his wife Asha, who were linked to the illegal construction of a house funded by drug money. Both individuals, residing in Sadabrat village, have been involved in the drug trade for years, facing multiple criminal cases under the NDPS Act.
The couple was arrested with ganja and narcotic powder in their possession, further substantiating their role in the drug business. Authorities seized drugs from their possession in previous cases, and the couple had continued to expand their operations despite the legal challenges.
In this case, the local administration, in coordination with the Rupnagar Police, demolished their illegally constructed house as part of the ongoing campaign led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to target drug-related illegal assets. Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain and SSP Rupnagar Gulneet Singh Khurana provided details of the operation, stating that it was part of a larger strategy to target and dismantle the financial infrastructure that supports drug trafficking networks in Punjab.
SSP Gulneet Khurana assured the public that the Punjab Police would continue with such operations in other districts to prevent the spread of narcotic substances and ensure the safety of the community.
“Salim Mohammad and Asha were involved in the drug trade for a long time, and their illegal property was funded through drug money. With this demolition, we aim to send a strong message that drug traffickers will no longer be able to misuse Punjab’s land for illegal gains,” said SSP Khurana.
Punjab’s Commitment to a Drug-Free Future
The demolition of these illegal houses is part of Punjab’s broader War Against Drugs, which was initiated with the goal of making the state drug-free. The state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has been actively engaged in this battle, with multiple operations conducted across the state targeting drug smugglers, peddlers, and their illicit assets.
In addition to demolitions, the Punjab Police has been actively involved in raiding drug dens, arresting key players in the drug trade, and increasing awareness about the dangers of drug addiction. The government’s efforts have also included campaigns to educate the public and encourage citizens to report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking.
The commitment to eradicating drugs from Punjab is not just a political goal but a societal imperative. The destruction of drug smugglers’ properties is seen as a direct attack on the infrastructure supporting this illegal trade, aiming to weaken the grip of the drug mafia on Punjab’s youth and communities.
A Renewed Call for Community Support
While the police and state authorities have made significant strides in tackling the drug issue, the success of the War Against Drugs largely depends on community involvement. Local citizens, educators, and community leaders are urged to remain vigilant and collaborate with law enforcement to ensure that drug trafficking does not find a foothold in Punjab’s future.
The recent actions in Patiala and Rupnagar serve as a warning to drug traffickers that the law is closing in on them. The Punjab Police has reaffirmed its commitment to the state’s anti-drug mission and will continue to take decisive action against anyone involved in the drug trade, regardless of their status or influence.
Looking Ahead: The Fight Continues
The demolition of the illegal houses in Patiala and Rupnagar is just one of many operations to dismantle the drug trade in Punjab. With the continued support of the local administration and the unwavering commitment of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state aims to create a drug-free environment for its citizens, particularly the youth.
As Punjab Police strengthens its War Against Drugs, residents are encouraged to report any illegal drug-related activities, and the government remains dedicated to providing resources to fight addiction and reduce the spread of narcotics.