Manipur: Security forces destroy poppy plantations in Kangpokpi

IMPHAL: Amidst the picturesque landscape adorned with white and lilac opium poppy flowers signalling a potential bumper harvest, security forces swiftly moved to the area and eradicated the poppy plants in Kangpokpi district of Manipur.

According to officials, a joint operation involving state and central security forces successfully destroyed 25 acres of poppy plantations in the south eastern hill range of Langka Liangmai village in Kangpokpi district of Manipur.

While a case has been registered for further investigation, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

This operation aligns with the Manipur government's ongoing “War on Drugs” initiative aimed at combating the proliferation of narcotics.

Last year, law enforcement agencies seized 147.1 kilograms of opium, a derivative of poppy plants, in Manipur.

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Additionally, efforts to curb illicit poppy cultivation resulted in the destruction of 3010 acres of such plantations.

The official report indicates that the assessment of poppy cultivation has been conducted for the past three consecutive years, covering nine hill districts predominantly inhabited by tribal communities in Manipur.

Furthermore, 288 cases were registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Manipur last year, underscoring the authorities' commitment to combating drug-related offenses.

The eradication of opium poppy plantations underscores the concerted efforts of security forces to dismantle illicit drug networks and safeguard public health and safety.