In a sweeping crackdown against narcotics, Jammu Police has delivered a strong blow to drug networks in the district, registering 88 cases under the NDPS Act and arresting 127 individuals, including several alleged kingpins involved in peddling. The intensified anti-drug drive in the first quarter of 2026 also saw the seizure of 40 vehicles linked to drug trafficking operations, said a Police spokesman on Wednesday.
A major chunk of the action centred around heroin (commonly known as ‘chitta’), with 79 FIRs registered and 117 arrests made in such cases alone. Officials said seven cases involved commercial quantities, leading to the arrest of 10 accused so far.
In what underscores the scale of the narcotics menace, police recovered over 10.7 kilograms of heroin, estimated to be worth more than Rs.65 crore in the international market. The recovery highlights both the depth of the drug trade in the region and the aggressive efforts by law enforcement to dismantle supply chains.
Jammu Police has also initiated steps to identify and act against hardcore drug peddlers by invoking stringent provisions like PIT NDPS, along with attaching illegally acquired properties linked to narcotics proceeds.
Beyond enforcement, the department has focused heavily on awareness and prevention. During the current year, police conducted 146 awareness programmes, including debates in schools and colleges, along with 18 PCPG meetings and 12 Thana Diwas. Additionally, 176 anti-drug campaigns and rallies were organised, targeting vulnerable areas and suspected hotspots to mobilise community support, the spokesman said.
Authorities said efforts are underway to identify and eliminate “mini drug hotspots” across the district, with increased coordination between police, civil administration, and the public.
On the rehabilitation front, the Police Drug De-addiction, Rehabilitation and Mental Health Care Centre at Channi, Jammu, has been actively assisting addicts. In the first quarter alone, 451 patients visited the OPD, while 87 were admitted for treatment, reflecting a parallel push to address addiction alongside enforcement.
To further strengthen surveillance, Jammu Police is deploying advanced technology, including CCTV cameras, facial recognition systems (FRS), and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at key hotspots, bus stands, and interstate checkpoints.
Reiterating its commitment to a drug-free society, Jammu Police urged citizens to actively share information about drug-related activities via helpline numbers 100 and 112, assuring complete confidentiality.
With a dual strategy of strict enforcement and community engagement, the ongoing drive marks a decisive step in Jammu’s fight against the drug menace, the spokesman added.