Drug arrest on the rise

SHILLONG, May 7:  Considering the high incidence of drug- related crimes, the East Khasi Hills DEF has intensified its operations against drug syndicates that are operating in the city and has achieved success in the recent past.

On April 27 last, the Anti Narcotic Task Force (ANTF) staff apprehended Slander Syiem (35) of Tyrsad village while he was selling ganja at Paltan Bazar area and recovered 1kg 340grams of ganja from his possession.

On 28 April, ANTF along with Madanrting PS Staff apprehended a lady named Sapthangi Chhak from Thembasuk at Madanrting and recovered a plastic box, 5 golden tobacco tin containing suspected heroin weighing 16.50grams and cash of Rs 16,465 from her possession.

Further, it also arrested another person Shokhomang from his rented house at Demthring and recovered yellow colour sack from behind his apartment and recovered 13soap cases containing suspected heroin weighing 162grams.

Meanwhile, around 9:30 pm on May 4 , ANTF along with Madanrting PS staff apprehended one drug peddler Khualsuamtak (23) of Lumjingsuk Block - A, and recovered from his possession one soap case containing 12.19 grams of suspected heroin. 

Later, the ANTF, after receiving information, also arrested Henry Neihsel (33) from his rented house at Lumjingsuk Block- A, and recovered from his residence 20 soap cases and 32 golden tobacco tin containers containing suspected heroin. 

It is worth mentioning that heroin of more than 250 grams is classified as Commercial Quantity as per the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, Davis N Marak said that many drug traffickers were operating from the rented premises in the city. Hence, house-owners are advised to take necessary precautions while renting out their houses.

He further said the police are seeking active cooperation of citizens in fighting drug syndicates operating in the city.