Agartala (Tripura) [India], June 18 (HBTV): In a major crackdown, Tripura Police apprehended nearly 70 to 80 individuals during a large-scale de-addiction drive conducted in West Tripura district ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26.

The coordinated operation was carried out on June 17 at identified drug hotspots such as Gulbazar, Heritage Park, and Gwala Basti, following repeated public complaints about drug use in these areas during evening hours.

The drive involved Tripura Police, the Traffic Department, the Superintendent of Police, and officers from East and West Agartala Police Stations. Officials stated that this campaign is part of an ongoing anti-drug initiative conducted four times a month or once every 15 days.

According to authorities, most of those detained were found consuming ganja and other narcotic substances. After their apprehension, they were admitted to rehabilitation centres for treatment. Alarmingly, several individuals were found to be HIV positive during the process.

Officials also confirmed that over 15 NGOs currently working in West Tripura district were actively involved in ensuring proper access to HIV medication and counselling support for the affected individuals.

‘We are making every effort to help them return to a healthier lifestyle and reintegrate into society,’ said one of the campaign coordinators.

Speaking to the press, Dr Kiran Kumar K, IPS, Superintendent of Police, West Tripura, said, ‘As part of our de-addiction campaign, we have a dedicated project under which we conduct drives four times a month, or once every 15 days. Today, in the West Tripura district, we apprehended around 70 to 80 individuals from various locations such as Gulbazar, Heritage Park, and Gwala Basti. We had received several complaints that people were gathering in these areas during the evening hours. There are over 15 NGOs working in the West Tripura district, and we are making every effort to ensure that these individuals can return to their previous, healthier state and lead normal lives again.’

The de-addiction drive was not only aimed at curbing drug abuse but also reflected the administration’s broader commitment to public health and community welfare.

Officials confirmed that such operations will continue regularly as part of a long-term strategy to eliminate the roots of substance abuse in the state.

(ANI)