Kulgam, May 05 :(KNC)In a major breakthrough against drug trafficking, Kulgam Police dismantled a well-organized narcotics network by arresting three accused, including a key kingpin, and recovering 202 grams of heroin along with ₹52,000 cash.

Police said that acting on credible inputs, information was received that two individuals — Hilal Ahmad Ganai of Kanispora Baramulla and Parvaz Ahmad Bhat of Wagoora Baramulla — were involved in smuggling heroin from Banihal towards Qazigund via NH-44 for distribution among local youth.

Accordingly, Police Station Qazigund registered FIR No. 108/2026 under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act and launched an investigation. A naka was established at Choimulla under the supervision of SHO Qazigund Shri Manav Dhanetiya (IPS Probationer), leading to the interception of a Baleno vehicle. Upon search, 50 grams of heroin-like substance were recovered from the duo, and the vehicle was seized.

During sustained investigation, police established backward linkages which led to the identification of the main supplier, Sadiq Hussain alias Showki, a resident of Rakh Barothian Vijaypur in Samba district.

Subsequently, a police team from Qazigund, in coordination with Samba Police, conducted a raid at the accused’s residence after obtaining a search warrant. The kingpin was apprehended, and during the search of his premises, particularly a stable, 152 grams of heroin and ₹52,000 cash were recovered.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused was running a well-structured drug network with multiple clients across Jammu and Kashmir, supplying narcotics on a routine basis and posing a serious threat to society, especially the youth. Police said further investigation is underway, and more arrests and recoveries are expected.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of SDPO Qazigund Shri Mansoor Ayaz (JKPS) and Addl. SP NHW Shri Mumtaz Ali Bhatti (JKPS).

SSP Kulgam Shri Anayat Ali Chowdhary (IPS) urged the public, particularly youth, to stay away from drugs and appealed to parents to remain vigilant. He also called upon citizens to share any information related to drug activities, assuring confidentiality and strict action against offenders.

Kulgam Police reiterated its commitment to eradicating the drug menace and warned that those involved in narcotics trafficking will face stringent legal action.(KNC)