CHANDIGARH, June 31— Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Saturday announced that the state’s ongoing crackdown on narcotics would be extended by another 60 days, following what he described as “significant disruption” to drug trafficking networks under the campaign Yudh Nashian Virudh.
The extension comes as the initial three-month deadline — set by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in March — expired on May 31. The DGP had earlier warned of disciplinary action against senior officers if narcotics were found in their jurisdictions after the deadline.
“We’re preparing fresh lists of drug peddlers and suppliers for targeted action. This fight is far from over,” said Yadav at a press briefing.
Focus on Rehabilitation
Under a new initiative titled Each One, Adopt One, top police officers — beginning with the DGP himself — will now adopt individual drug addicts in treatment centres, tracking their recovery and supporting rehabilitation.
“This personalised approach aims to provide continuous support and motivation to drug users, helping them to overcome addiction and lead healthier lives,” said Yadav.
He emphasized that the state police are pursuing a “compassionate” strategy. Over 6,000 individuals have already been admitted to de-addiction facilities, and 1,121 people caught with small quantities of drugs were referred to rehab under Section 64-A of the NDPS Act.
“This initiative treats addicts as patients, not criminals, offering them a genuine path to recovery and reintegration into society,” the DGP noted.
Major Seizures and Arrests
Since the launch of the campaign on March 1, Punjab Police have filed 8,344 FIRs and arrested 14,734 alleged drug smugglers. Seizures include:
- 586 kg of heroin
- 247 kg of opium
- 14 tons of poppy husk
Illegally acquired assets worth ₹74.27 crore have been frozen, while 104 properties linked to drug trafficking have been demolished.
Additionally, the police seized ₹10.76 crore in drug money and arrested 48 hawala operators. “This financial blow has undermined the economic infrastructure of the drug mafia, making it harder for them to sustain their illegal activities,” Yadav stated.
Border Security Measures
To counter cross-border narcotics smuggling, especially from Pakistan, Yadav confirmed the deployment of advanced anti-drone systems along the international border.
“These systems are capable of detecting, identifying and neutralising drones used for smuggling drugs, arms, and explosives,” he said.
The DGP reaffirmed that the campaign would continue to escalate. “This fight is about protecting our youth, and we are committed to seeing it through.”
