Police tighten noose around drug peddlers in border districts, 123 drug smugglers arrested in last 24 days in Fazilka
DIG Swapan Sharma asks officer to enhance surveillance against drugs smugglers
Fazilka, March 25, 2025 : Under the leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has intensified its war against drugs. Following the directives of DGP Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, the police have initiated a decisive crackdown on drug traffickers. In just the past 24 days, as many as 123 drug traffickers have been arrested in the Fazilka district alone. This information was shared by DIG Ferozepur Range, Swapan Sharma, IPS, during his visit to the district today.
Upon his arrival, DIG Swapan Sharma was welcomed by SSP Fazilka, Varinder Singh Brar, who provided insights into the ongoing police operations in the district. During the visit, a crime meeting was held with SSP Fazilka, police officials, and station house officers. The DIG directed the officials to take stringent action against drug traffickers and anti-social elements, expedite pending cases, prioritize public grievances, and strengthen policing further.
As part of the Punjab Police’s community outreach program, sampark, a public meeting was organized at village Gumaniwala in Jalalabad, where prominent individuals from different sectors participated. DIG Swapan Sharma attended the meeting as the chief guest and stated that the purpose of such gatherings is to incorporate public opinion into the anti-drug campaign and make it more effective.
He emphasized that the Punjab Government has launched the ‘Safe Punjab Helpline’ at 9779100200, where citizens can report drug-related activities while maintaining complete confidentiality. He assured that every tip-off would be thoroughly verified and acted upon, ensuring that no criminal goes unpunished.
DIG Swapan Sharma reiterated that the war against drugs is a collective responsibility of society. He urged citizens to take an active role in this movement, asserting that if people take one step forward, the police will take ten. He further informed that ‘Village Defence Committees’ exist in every village and would be further strengthened to ensure vigilance against drug traffickers. He encouraged parents to counsel their children regularly and maintain a close relationship with them to keep them away from drug abuse.
SSP Varinder Singh Brar highlighted that Fazilka police, has been taking strong measures against drug traffickers through various operations like ‘Caso Operation’ and ‘Seal Operation.’ The local community appreciated the police’s efforts and assured full support in eradicating drug menace.
DIG Swapan Sharma disclosed that from March 1 to March 24, Punjab Police registered 87 cases against drug traffickers, leading to the arrest of 123 individuals in Fazilka District. During this period, significant seizures were made, including 2.435 kg heroin, 576,935 Prega capsules, 24,279 intoxicant pills, 7.5 kg poppy husk, and drug money amounting to ₹54,000. Additionally, bulldozer operations were conducted against drug peddlers’ properties.
Addressing media queries, DIG Sharma stated that Punjab Police acts as the second line of defence along the international border and is soon set to receive an anti-drone system, enhancing its capabilities to curb drug smuggling. He affirmed that drug traffickers would not be spared and that jail would be their only destination.
During his visit to Abohar, DIG Sharma reviewed the functioning of Sadar police station and held discussions with the police staff. He assured that efforts were being made to ensure better services for the public and prompt resolution of pending cases. The Punjab Police remains committed to enhancing its efficiency to provide quality service to the people