In a significant anti-narcotics initiative, a combined team of security forces, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and the Forest Department conducted a major operation in Kangpokpi district of Manipur, targeting illegal poppy cultivation. Over two days, on December 5 and 6, the operation led to the destruction of approximately 67 acres of illegally grown poppy across fields in the hill ranges of Makui Ashang, Laloi, Wakotphai, Chaljang, and nearby areas that fall under the auspices of the Kangpokpi Police Station.
During the course of the operation, authorities dismantled 38 huts utilized by the poppy cultivators and seized a noteworthy quantity of agricultural materials. This included the confiscation of 44 bags of fertilizers, 43 bottles of Roundup herbicide, 26 bags of salt, along with various farming implements such as spray pumps and pipes. All seized items were subsequently destroyed on-site, as confirmed by a statement from the Manipur Police.
Former Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, praised the efforts of Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the state government for their unwavering commitment to combating illegal narcotics cultivation. He emphasized the operation’s connection to the central government’s wider initiative known as ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ (Drug-Free India), highlighting its alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision. Singh encouraged the continuation of such operations across all regions within the state that are susceptible to narcotics activities, underscoring the importance of sustained efforts in eradicating this issue in Manipur.