Police to intensify anti-drug crackdown in ‘Mission Mode’: IGP

Srinagar, Apr 14: Stating that police will further scale up its anti-drug operations in a “mission mode”, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V.K. Birdi on Tuesday warned of swift and strict action against drug peddlers, smugglers and traffickers across the Valley.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function, IGP Birdi said that the police force has been consistently working against the drug menace, but the coming days will witness a more aggressive and targeted crackdown.
“J&K Police has always been in mission mode against drugs. In the coming days, our action will be swifter to ensure strict legal action against peddlers, smugglers and all those involved in trafficking,” he said.
He asserted that law enforcement agencies are committed to dismantling drug networks and ensuring a safer society through intensified operations and stronger enforcement.
Highlighting the role of youth, the IGP said young people are the backbone of the nation and must stay disciplined and away from substance abuse.
“Youth should keep themselves away from drugs so that they can contribute positively to society and the country,” he added.
Responding to a query regarding the recent Sopore incident, IGP Birdi said police have arrested eight persons, and an investigation is underway. He clarified that those involved were outsiders and no one from the school was linked to the case.
“The investigation is in progress, and the culprits will not be spared,” he said.
Earlier, the IGP visited a Gurudwara on the occasion of Baisakhi, where he extended greetings to the Sikh community and prayed for peace, prosperity and harmony in the region.
He said the festival signifies sacrifice, justice and protection of the oppressed, while also promoting values of ethics and goodwill.
“It is a holy occasion and the creation day of Khalsa Panth. We paid obeisance and conveyed greetings to the Sikh community on behalf of J&K Police,” he said. (KNO)