Synopsis
On February 2, the Manipur government successfully destroyed over 25 acres of illegal poppy cultivation in Tengnoupal district amid ongoing efforts in their 'War on Drugs' campaign, following a violent confrontation with a mob that disrupted earlier operations.Key Takeaways
- Over 25 acres of poppy cultivation destroyed.
- Operation part of War on Drugs initiative.
- Mob violence obstructed earlier efforts.
- Legal actions initiated against culprits.
- Government's commitment to eradicate drug-related activities.
Imphal, Feb 2 (NationPress) In alignment with the Manipur government’s ‘War on Drugs initiative, authorities eradicated over 25 acres of poppy cultivation in the Tengnoupal district on Sunday. This operation came just two days after a mob violently confronted a security team attempting to dismantle illegal poppy farming in the Kangpokpi district, according to official reports.
Manipur’s Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who is also responsible for the Home portfolio, shared on X: Major Crackdown: 25+ Acres of Poppy Cultivation Destroyed in Tengnoupal. He emphasized, “As part of our intensified War on Drugs mission, over 25 acres of illegal poppy plantations were successfully eradicated today at Khudei Khullen Hill range, Tengnoupal subdivision.”
An FIR has been filed for further legal proceedings. The Chief Minister praised the collaborative efforts of the Tengnoupal District Police, BSF, AR, reserve line teams, Forest Department, and the executive magistrate in confronting these unlawful activities.
A senior official indicated that the joint forces from Kangpokpi district Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Executive Magistrate attempted a poppy destruction operation in the hill range of Lhungjang Village under Saikul Police Station on Friday.
Despite the authorities’ clear intention to enforce laws and combat the drug issue in the region, the operation was met with violent resistance.
The official reported that a large mob armed with sticks assembled at the site, forcefully interrupting the operation.
“Exploiting the limited police presence, the mob vandalized three police vehicles and coerced the personnel to cease the destruction operation. The situation escalated rapidly, prompting a reinforcement team led by SP Kangpokpi to the scene to manage the mob, restore order, and ensure the continuation of the destruction operation,” he stated.
The operation specifically targeted extensive land utilized for poppy cultivation, recognized as a primary source for illicit opium production.
In spite of the aggression and threats from the mob, the combined team remained resolute, successfully eliminating approximately 45 acres of illegal poppy cultivation on Friday.
An FIR has been lodged at Saikul Police Station for a deeper investigation into the incident. The government has taken this incident very seriously, condemning the mob violence in the strongest terms.
Strict legal measures will be enforced against all individuals involved, including Ajang Khongsai, who is connected to both the village and the incident.
The government remains dedicated to persistently combating illicit poppy cultivation throughout the state and will not tolerate any attempts to hinder the ‘War on Drugs campaign,” as stated in an official communication.
It was noted that Ajang Khongsai serves as the President of Kuki Inpi, Manipur, an apex organization of the Kuki-Zo tribes.
