Awantipora, Apr 25 (JKNS): In a sustained and multi-pronged crackdown against drug abuse and associated crimes, Awantipora Police on Saturday carried out a series of operations across Khrew, Tral, and adjoining areas, resulting in the arrest of a drug peddler, and two gamblers, with intensified awareness and enforcement drives under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan.
According to details available with news agency JKNS, Police Station Khrew, under the supervision of SHO Inspector Naieem Rashid, apprehended a drug peddler during naka checking at Seer Colony Khrew road. The accused has been identified as Razi Mushtaq, son of Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, resident of Sharshalli. During his search, 1.82 grams of heroin-like substance was recovered from his possession.
Subsequently, FIR No. 31/2026 under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Khrew and further investigation has been initiated to trace forward and backward linkages.
In another operation targeting social crimes, Awantipora Police arrested two gamblers during a raid at Sharshalli Khrew following specific inputs about gambling activities.
The accused were identified as Showkat Ahmed Sheikh, son of Sonaullah Sheikh, and Umar Nazir Bhat, son of Nazir Ahmad Bhat, both residents of Sharshalli. Police seized stake money amounting to Rs 6,830 along with playing cards from their possession. Both accused were shifted to the police station and a case FIR No. 32/2026 under relevant sections has been registered for further investigation.
Meanwhile, police also intensified community outreach as part of the anti-drug campaign by organizing awareness programmes at Zafran Public Higher Secondary School Samboora and Syed Memorial English Medium High School Sharshalli, Khrew. The programmes witnessed active participation from students, teachers, parents, and members of the local community. During the sessions, participants were sensitized about the harmful effects of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society. Students were encouraged to stay away from drugs and adopt disciplined and healthy lifestyles, while emphasis was laid on the role of awareness, early intervention, and collective responsibility in tackling the menace.
Extending the campaign further, Police Station Tral conducted a comprehensive awareness programme for Numberdars and Chowkidars, highlighting their crucial role as grassroots-level representatives in identifying and reporting suspicious activities related to drug peddling. They were advised to remain vigilant and ensure that no illegal cultivation of poppy or other narcotic substances takes place within their jurisdictions. Participants were also urged to actively support police efforts by sharing timely information and spreading awareness in their respective areas.
In addition to enforcement and awareness measures, a joint inspection drive was carried out at Chersoo in Awantipora in coordination with the Drug Inspector. During the drive, several chemist and druggist shops were inspected to verify compliance with norms governing the sale of medicines. Officials examined records and stock registers to prevent illegal sale or misuse of pharmaceutical drugs, which often contribute to substance abuse.
Police reiterated that such coordinated enforcement and awareness initiatives will continue with greater intensity to dismantle drug networks and curb related offences. The general public has been urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and share any information regarding drug peddling or other criminal activities to help build a drug-free society. (JKNS)
