Aaqib Butt
Kishtwar, May 23, 2026:
Continuing its drive against drug menace, Kishtwar Police busted illegal cultivation of opium poppy plants in the Paddar area and registered two cases under the NDPS Act at Police Station Atholi.
SSP Kishtwar stated that Kishtwar Police developed reliable information regarding illegal cultivation of opium poppy in the Paddar area. Acting on this input, a police team led by SHO PS Atholi under the supervision of SDPO Atholi conducted a raid at Village Karthie, Tehsil Atholi Paddar, where Mohd. Akbar S/O Ghulam Qadir was found cultivating opium illegally. In this regard, Case FIR No. 11/2026 U/S 8/18 NDPS Act has been registered. During the operation, about 25 kilograms of opium poppy plants were recovered and destroyed on the spot as per procedure.
In another raid at Village Kijaie, police found Abdul Latief Bichoo S/O Abdul Aziz Bichoo and Abdul Kabir S/O Ghulam Rasool Shah involved in similar illegal cultivation. Accordingly, Case FIR No. 12/2026 U/S 8/18 NDPS Act has been registered. Around 35 kilograms of opium poppy plants were recovered from Abdul Latief Bichoo and about 25 kilograms from Abdul Kabir, all of which were destroyed on the spot.
SSP Kishtwar reiterated that such drives will continue with full force and warned that anyone involved in drug cultivation, trafficking, or supporting such activities will face strict legal action. He appealed to the general public to remain vigilant and share any information regarding narcotics, assuring that the identity of informers will be kept confidential. He further emphasized that continuous field monitoring and strict enforcement will be maintained to curb illegal cultivation and dismantle drug networks. Kishtwar Police remains committed to eradicate the drug menace and ensure a safe and drug-free society.
