Punjab Police Cracks Down on Drug Smugglers: 110 Arrests on Day 11 of ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’

Punjab Police Cracks Down on Drug Smugglers: 110 Arrests on Day 11 of ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’

Chandigarh, March 11, 2025 — On the 11th day of the ongoing battle against drugs, Yudh Nashian Virudh, Punjab Police conducted widespread raids across the state, arresting 110 drug smugglers and seizing significant quantities of illicit substances. The operation, led by the Punjab Police, marks a major milestone in the state government’s war on drugs, as part of the commitment made by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate the drug menace from Punjab.

The Punjab Police’s coordinated effort saw 580 raids across the state, leading to the registration of 68 FIRs (First Information Reports). As of now, 1540 drug smugglers have been arrested in just 11 days since the launch of the operation, underscoring the intensity of the crackdown.

Drugs Seized, Smuggling Networks Disrupted

In the course of Tuesday’s operation, Punjab Police seized 2.8 kg of heroin, 500 grams of opium, 10,904 intoxicating pills, tablets, and injections, and a total of ₹2.88 lakh in drug money. The massive haul highlights the extensive scale of illegal drug trafficking that the police are targeting.

The operation was carried out on the directives of Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, who oversaw the coordination of 220 police teams across 28 districts in Punjab. Over 1600 police personnel participated in the raids, under the supervision of 107 gazetted officers, with the goal of dismantling the entire drug trafficking network within the state.

Focus on Jails and Suspicious Activities

As part of its ongoing efforts to curb drug smuggling from within jails, Punjab Police also conducted searches in prisons across five districts: Fazilka, Ferozepur, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Faridkot, and Moga. Special teams meticulously scoured every corner of the prison complexes, including barracks, kitchens, and toilets, in search of illegal activities related to drugs and smuggling.

Special DGP Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, confirmed that these targeted searches were part of a broader effort to ensure that drugs are not being smuggled into prisons, where incarcerated individuals often play a role in sustaining drug networks outside.

“Our teams have conducted detailed searches across these jails to ensure that no illicit activities are being conducted behind bars. We are leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to curb the drug trade in Punjab,” said Special DGP Shukla.

Punjab Police’s Multi-Pronged Strategy: Enforcement, De-addiction, and Prevention

The Punjab Government, under CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, has implemented a comprehensive, three-pronged strategy to tackle the drug crisis: Enforcement, De-addiction, and Prevention (EDP).

• Enforcement: The Punjab Police is focusing on continuous raids, arrests, and dismantling of drug smuggling networks.
• De-addiction: As part of the de-addiction efforts, one individual has already been convinced to undergo rehabilitation, and the police are encouraging more drug users to seek treatment.
• Prevention: To prevent the next generation from falling into drug addiction, 146 awareness events have been organized across the state to educate the public on the dangers of drug abuse. These events are crucial in spreading awareness and mobilizing the community in support of the government’s anti-drug initiatives.

Special DGP Shukla stated, “We are not just arresting drug smugglers and seizing drugs, but we are also focusing on prevention and rehabilitation. It is important to educate the public, especially the youth, about the devastating effects of drugs and addiction.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s Commitment to a Drug-Free Punjab

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has made it clear that eradicating drugs is one of the top priorities of his government. The CM has set an ambitious goal of making Punjab a drug-free state within the next three months. As part of the drive, Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners, and Senior Superintendents of Police have been given clear directives to expedite the crackdown on drugs, with support from the state’s Cabinet.

Additionally, the Punjab Government has set up a 5-member Cabinet Sub-Committee, led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, to monitor and oversee the war against drugs, ensuring that the efforts are consistent and effective.

Continuing the Fight: Punjab Police’s Long-Term Commitment

The success of Day 11’s operation illustrates the growing impact of the Punjab Police’s crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse. The operation, combined with the EDP strategy, is making significant strides in the state’s battle against drugs.

As the Yudh Nashian Virudh campaign progresses, the Punjab Police remains resolute in its mission to break the grip of drug cartels and ensure a drug-free future for the residents of the state. With continuous raids, awareness programs, and rehabilitation efforts, the police force is laying the foundation for lasting change in Punjab.

The state government is optimistic that these ongoing efforts will not only curb the supply of drugs but also reduce demand through awareness and rehabilitation, creating a healthier, drug-free environment for the people of Punjab.