BANDIPORA, Suhail Rather — After terrorism, drug abuse has emerged as the biggest challenge facing Jammu and Kashmir, with police stepping up action against narcotics in North Kashmir, the Director Inspector General of Police in North Kashmir said on Tuesday in Bandipora.
Talking to the reporters on the sidelines of the talent hunt and youth programme organised by the youth service and sports, Maqsood-ul Zaman said that significant quantities of narcotic substances have been recovered and a large number of people have been arrested and detained under NDPS during recent operations in North Kashmir. Authorities said properties of drug peddlers are also being seized as part of the ongoing drive.
Statistical data clearly show a considerable recovery of drugs and arrests in North Kashmir. However, this fight cannot be won without the support of the common masses,” police said, stressing that public cooperation is vital to achieve the desired results.
Police also confirmed the monitoring of suspicious use of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) in North Kashmir, stating that such tools are often misused to conceal illegal online activities.
Those using networks they do not want to be seen on are often involved in activities against the law or national interest. Monitoring such platforms has therefore become necessary,” officials said.
On infiltration threats, police stated that despite the presence of border areas in North Kashmir, robust security plans are in place and the situation remains under control.
Police appealed to people to remain vigilant and extend full support to law enforcement agencies in the fight against drugs and other threats to peace in the region.