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  • Coordinated operations across several districts yield major seizures; drug peddlers and alleged illegal miners face action, while police strengthen public safety, community engagement and youth outreach

JAMMU/SRINAGAR: Intensifying its multi-pronged campaign against drug trafficking, illegal mining, criminal activities and violations of law, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday undertook a series of enforcement, preventive and community-oriented initiatives across several districts of the Kashmir Valley.

The coordinated operations resulted in the apprehension of an alleged drug peddler, seizure of vehicles and machinery allegedly involved in illegal mining, action against traffic violators, detention of a notorious alleged fraudster under the Public Safety Act (PSA), and the resolution of a hit-and-run case. Simultaneously, police intensified security verification drives, engaged with local communities to address public grievances and organised sports and awareness activities to promote youth participation, social responsibility and a drug-free society.

The major enforcement drive against illegal mining and traffic violations extended across Kulgam, Sopore, Baramulla, Awantipora and Anantnag, resulting in the seizure of 26 vehicles and one JCB machine, besides challaning 13 heavy motor vehicles. In another significant action, Anantnag Police apprehended a suspected drug peddler and recovered heroin and cash during naka checking. Police also continued preventive action against individuals allegedly involved in criminal activities, while strengthening police-public coordination through community meetings and youth engagement programmes.

ANANTNAG POLICE ARREST DRUG PEDDLER; HEROIN AND ₹5,300 RECOVERED DURING NAKA CHECKING

In its continued campaign against drug trafficking, Anantnag Police apprehended an alleged drug peddler during naka checking at Lisser, falling within the jurisdiction of Police Station Kokernag.

According to police, a person riding a motorcycle attempted to flee after noticing the police naka party. However, alert police personnel swiftly intercepted and apprehended him.

During his search, heroin and ₹5,300 in cash were recovered from his possession. The accused was identified as Tariq Ahmad Dar, son of Manzoor Ahmad Dar, resident of Shangran, Dooru.

The motorcycle bearing registration number JK03F-9014, along with the recovered cash, was seized.

In this connection, FIR No. 185/2026 has been registered at Police Station Kokernag, and further investigation has been initiated to ascertain the source of the contraband and identify possible links in the drug supply network.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to intensifying the campaign against the drug menace and taking stringent action against those involved in drug trafficking.

MAJOR CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL MINING: 26 VEHICLES AND JCB SEIZED, 13 HEAVY VEHICLES CHALLANED ACROSS FIVE DISTRICTS

In a major coordinated crackdown against illegal mining, unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals, and traffic violations, J&K Police intensified enforcement operations across Kulgam, Sopore, Baramulla, Awantipora and Anantnag districts.

The operations resulted in the seizure of 26 vehicles and one JCB machine allegedly involved in illegal activities. Additionally, 13 heavy motor vehicles, particularly tippers and dumpers, were challaned for various violations of the Motor Vehicles Act.

Kulgam: Three FIRs registered over illegal transportation of minerals

In Kulgam, police registered three FIRs after intercepting four tractors at Vessu Crossing and Palpora Crossing, allegedly transporting illegally extracted riverbed material, including sand and boulders, without valid authorisation and royalty documents.

The action was carried out by Police Station Qazigund and Police Post Mirbazar. FIR Nos. 274/2026, 275/2026 and 276/2026 were registered, and investigations were taken up.

In separate enforcement operations, police seized 10 vehicles, including heavy motor vehicles, motorcycles, a tractor and other two-wheelers, for various violations of the Motor Vehicles Act, including non-compliance with High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) requirements.

Furthermore, 13 heavy motor vehicles, including tippers and dumpers, were challaned by Police Stations Devsar, Qaimoh and Qazigund for traffic violations.

Sopore: Five vehicles seized in joint operation

In Sopore, police, in coordination with the Geology and Mining Department, conducted joint enforcement operations at various locations across Police District Sopore and seized five vehicles allegedly involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals without valid permission.

Baramulla: Tipper seized at Chakloo

In Baramulla, police seized a tipper bearing registration number JK05B-4113 at Chakloo after it was found transporting extracted minerals without valid permission.

Necessary legal proceedings under the relevant provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act were initiated through the District Mineral Officer, Baramulla.

Awantipora: JCB seized, driver apprehended

In Awantipora, police seized a JCB machine at Sheikh-ul-Aalam, Tanchibagh, falling within the jurisdiction of Police Station Pampore, and apprehended its driver in connection with alleged illegal mining.

The accused was identified as Mohd Sakib Sheikh, son of Mohd Asik Sheikh, resident of Dusoo, Pulwama, presently residing at Doonnard, Pampore.

Accordingly, FIR No. 102/2026 was registered at Police Station Pampore, and further investigation was initiated.

In another operation, Police Station Pampore seized two tipper vehicles bearing registration numbers JK01Q-0301 and JK01AT-2525 for their alleged involvement in illegal extraction and transportation of sand from River Jhelum at Bujibagh, Samboora.

Subsequently, FIR No. 104/2026 under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Pampore.

Anantnag: Four tractors seized during night operation

Meanwhile, in Anantnag, police intensified night-time checking and area domination operations to curb illegal mining.

During the operation, a police party from Police Station Achabal seized four tractors allegedly involved in illegal mining at Telwani Achabal. Cognisance has been taken, and further legal action is being initiated in accordance with law.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to protecting natural resources, safeguarding public property, upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety.

NOTORIOUS ALLEGED FRAUDSTER BOOKED UNDER PSA IN ANANTNAG; LODGED IN JAIL

In a significant preventive action aimed at maintaining public order and ensuring the safety and security of the general public, Anantnag Police booked a notorious alleged fraudster under the Public Safety Act (PSA), 1978.

The individual, identified as Raoof Ahmad Wani, alias Dr. Fahim, alias Raoof Kasab, resident of Khudhamam, Dooru, has been detained following his alleged repeated involvement in criminal activities.

According to police, the individual is implicated in multiple criminal cases registered at Police Stations Dooru and Achabal, involving offences related to cheating, fraud, criminal intimidation and other unlawful activities.

Police stated that his continued involvement in such activities was found prejudicial to the maintenance of public order, necessitating preventive action under the provisions of the PSA.

After completion of the requisite legal formalities, the individual was detained under the PSA and lodged in jail.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace, public order and security across the district, adding that strict legal action would continue against individuals involved in criminal activities or conduct threatening public safety.

KULGAM POLICE SOLVES HIT-AND-RUN CASE; ACCUSED DRIVER BOOKED AFTER CCTV FOOTAGE HELPS IDENTIFICATION

Kulgam Police have solved a hit-and-run case registered at Police Station Qazigund, identifying the vehicle and its driver allegedly involved in the accident.

The accident occurred on November 7, 2026, near Ujroo Crossing, in which one person, identified as Zubair Ahmad Kasana, sustained injuries.

The injured person was initially shifted to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Dooru and was subsequently referred to Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag for further treatment.

During the investigation, CCTV footage obtained from the accident site and adjoining areas, coupled with reliable inputs, helped police identify the vehicle involved in the incident.

The vehicle was identified as an Alto bearing registration number JK03Q-6933, while its driver was identified as Tariq Ahmad Ganie, resident of Akingam, Banpora Achabal.

The driver has been booked under relevant provisions of law.

Police appealed to motorists to act responsibly and never flee the scene of an accident. They urged drivers to stop, assist injured persons and immediately inform the police, emphasising that saving a life is a responsibility.

SECURITY DRIVE INTENSIFIED IN BARAMULLA; SIM CARD VENDORS, SCRAP DEALERS AND PESTICIDE SHOPS INSPECTED

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen preventive policing, enhance public safety and prevent the misuse of commercial establishments for unlawful activities, Baramulla Police conducted extensive inspection and verification drives across various police jurisdictions in the district.

During the operations, Police Stations Kreeri and Kunzer inspected SIM card vendor establishments, where records pertaining to SIM card issuance, customer identification and verification were thoroughly scrutinised.

The vendors were directed to maintain accurate and updated records and strictly adhere to prescribed regulatory guidelines and verification procedures.

Meanwhile, Police Station Pattan inspected scrap dealer establishments, verifying identity particulars, licence documents, purchase and sale records, and sources of scrap material.

The dealers were sensitised about maintaining proper documentation and exercising due diligence while purchasing scrap, particularly to prevent the acquisition or disposal of stolen or suspicious property.

Similarly, Police Post Palhallan inspected SIM card vendor establishments and pesticide shops, scrutinising relevant documents and records and issuing necessary directions regarding regulatory compliance and proper record maintenance.

In addition, 11 notices were served to shopkeepers, directing them to ensure mandatory installation of CCTV cameras at their respective establishments to strengthen surveillance and enhance crime prevention measures.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to proactive and preventive policing, maintaining public order and ensuring the safety and security of the general public.

SOPORE POLICE HOLDS COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP MEETING; PUBLIC RAISES DRUG MENACE, ILLEGAL MINING AND CIVIC ISSUES

In an effort to strengthen police-public relations and address local grievances, Sopore Police organised a Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meeting at Police Station Panzalla.

The meeting was presided over by SSP Sopore, Neha Jain, IPS, and attended by SDPO Rafiabad and SHO Police Station Panzalla.

During the interaction, participants welcomed SSP Sopore and raised several issues concerning public safety, infrastructure development and civic amenities.

The major issues highlighted included the growing drug menace, crime control, illegal mining, recruitment of local youth in J&K Police, completion of the Government High School Patoosa building, establishment of a Police Post at Rohama and reopening of closed tourist destinations in Sub-Division Rafiabad.

The participants also sought macadamisation of roads in the upper belt of Rafiabad, permission for religious gatherings, improved drinking water supply, better road connectivity in the upper belt and completion of the incomplete Nadihal-Rohama road.

The participants extended Diwali greetings to SSP Sopore and assured full cooperation to the police.

Responding to the concerns, SSP Sopore thanked the participants for their active participation and sought public cooperation in eradicating the drug menace and other social evils.

She urged people to assist police in identifying wider linkages of drug peddlers and assured strict action against illegal mining.

She further stated that issues concerning the civil administration would be taken up with the concerned departments for early redressal.

Congratulating the participants on Diwali, she encouraged the public to freely approach J&K Police with their issues and grievances.

AWANTIPORA POLICE ORGANISES DEBATE COMPETITION TO PROMOTE DRUG-FREE SOCIETY AMONG YOUTH

As part of its sustained efforts to combat the drug menace and sensitise the younger generation about the harmful consequences of substance abuse, Awantipora Police organised a debate competition under the theme "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan" at Government Higher Secondary School, Dadsara.

The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, who presented their views on various aspects of drug abuse, its devastating consequences for individuals, families and society, and the importance of collective efforts to eradicate this social menace.

The initiative aimed at sensitising students about the harmful impact of substance abuse, encouraging healthy lifestyles and motivating young people to stay away from drugs.

Students were also encouraged to spread awareness among their peers and actively contribute towards building a healthy, responsible and drug-free society.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to organising similar awareness programmes in educational institutions to engage young people in the fight against drug abuse and strengthen collective efforts towards achieving the vision of a Drug Free Bharat.

HANDWARA POLICE INAUGURATES BADMINTON TOURNAMENT UNDER CIVIC ACTION PROGRAMME TO PROMOTE YOUTH TALENT

In a significant initiative to encourage sports culture, youth engagement and a healthy lifestyle, Handwara Police inaugurated a badminton tournament at the Badminton Court, District Police Lines (DPL) Handwara, under the Civic Action Programme 2026–27.

The tournament was formally inaugurated by Additional Superintendent of Police Handwara, Fayaz Hussain, JKPS, in the presence of DySP DAR DPL Handwara and other police officers.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from boys and girls belonging to different age categories, including Under-16 and Under-18 groups.

The initiative aims to provide young sporting talent with a platform to showcase their abilities while promoting physical fitness, discipline, sportsmanship and healthy competition.

On the occasion, participating players were encouraged to actively engage in sporting activities and channel their energy towards positive and constructive pursuits.

The initiative also reflects Handwara Police's continued commitment to youth empowerment, community engagement and promoting a drug-free society through sports.

J&K Police reiterated its resolve to continue organising such constructive activities to nurture young talent and strengthen police-public relations.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here