Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma took a major step in the state’s fight against drug abuse with the inauguration of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) police station in Shillong. The event, held at the Meghalaya Police Radio Organisation Training School, Golf Links, was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Home Minister Prestone Tynsong, Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, and DGP Iadashisha Nongrang.
The ANTF police station is a specialized facility dedicated to combating drug trafficking and dismantling supply chains. Unlike their earlier role in general policing, the ANTF team will now exclusively focus on tackling drug-related crimes.
Achievements in Drug Crackdown
Over the last five years, Meghalaya Police have made substantial progress in addressing the drug menace:
- 653 drug-related cases registered, with 492 chargesheets filed.
- Arrest of 1,161 individuals, including 134 women.
- Seizures:
- 42 kg of heroin, 13 kg of ganja, 3 kg of opium, and 129 kg of yaba tablets.
- 1,24,829 bottles of cough syrup.
- 378 stolen vehicles recovered.
- Confiscation of cash and assets worth ₹95,81,204, along with three weapons.
A Holistic Approach
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Sangma emphasized the importance of a multi-pronged strategy to combat drug abuse. This includes:
- Supply chain control through specialized police operations.
- Health interventions, including rehabilitation and counseling for addicts.
- Collaboration among departments like Home, Social Welfare, and Health to ensure a comprehensive approach.
Sangma reiterated the significance of the state’s Drug Reduction Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), which provides a structured framework for regular reviews and strategic alignment.
Modern Infrastructure and Collective Action
The newly launched ANTF station is equipped with modern technology and staffed by skilled personnel, serving as a central hub for anti-drug operations. The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of community involvement in combating drug abuse.
“This is not just a government effort; it requires society to come together. Only through collective action can we win this war against drugs,” Sangma stated.
Meghalaya’s coordinated strategy and focus on active community participation are paving the way for a stronger, drug-free future.