Meghalaya police destroyed seized drugs worth over Rs 53 crore today, incinerating the drugs in the Star Cement factory kiln at Lumshnong in East Jaiñtia Hills district.
Heroin made up the greatest share, by value, with about Rs 23.98 crore, Rs 21. 3 crore crystal methamphetamine, cannabis worth Rs 7.6 crore and other drugs.
The drugs related to more than 56 criminal cases and were incinerated only after receiving court orders to do the same. The cases pertained to East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, Ri Bhoi, West Jaiñtia Hills and East Jaiñtia Hills Districts.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, Director General of Police Iadashisha Nongrang, senior police officials and others were present to witness the drug disposal programme.
The chief minister reiterated the government’s commitment to continue its fight against drugs. “Today’s disposal of drugs underscores our unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking in Meghalaya. This is a strong message to the community that we are serious about this fight and will continue to take decisive action,” he said.
He said that the government through the Drug Reduction, Elimination, & Action Mission (DREAM) is supporting vulnerable youth in their battle against drug abuse.
He appreciated the cooperation of Star Cement in ensuring the safe and effective disposal of the substances.
Nongrang, informed that the seized drugs awaiting disposal is double that of what was destroyed today.
She hoped that the drug disposal programme would be held annually so that the seized substance would not keep on accumulating.
The DGP assured that there is complete transparency in the drug disposal process and that there is no pilferage of seized drugs.
Tynsong congratulated the police and other departments involved. “The police, under the leadership of the DGP, have done a commendable job. This programme is an example of the collective efforts by all stakeholders to eliminate drug abuse in the state,” he said.
