Shimla Police has dealt a significant blow to inter-state drug trafficking rings operating within Himachal Pradesh. During a strategic operation conducted in the Narkanda area under the Kumarsain Police Station jurisdiction, authorities recovered a substantial consignment of narcotics and unaccounted cash.
The operation, spearheaded by the Detection Cell Rampur on April 10, was initiated following a precise intelligence tip-off. Acting on information that a large haul of contraband was being transported in a specific Innova vehicle, police personnel established a strategic blockade in the Narkanda region.
Major Seizure in Narkanda
Upon intercepting the suspect vehicle, the occupants exhibited visible signs of distress. A meticulous search conducted in the presence of independent witnesses led to the recovery of 9.28 kilograms of opium. In addition to the narcotics, police seized 12 lakh in cash, which is suspected to be proceeds from illegal drug sales.
The three individuals apprehended at the spot have been identified as N. Bahadur alias Raju (41), Chakra Bahadur (25), and Mohan Shahi (44). All three accused are of Nepalese origin. Investigations are currently underway to determine the duration of their involvement in the illicit trade and their specific roles within the syndicate.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
An FIR (No. 27/2026) has been registered at the Kumarsain Police Station under Sections 18 and 29 of the NDPS Act. DSP Rampur, Naresh Sharma, confirmed that the accused are being produced before the court to seek police remand for further interrogation.
The Shimla Police is now focusing on the “backward and forward linkages” of this network. Efforts are being concentrated on identifying the source of the opium and the intended destinations for the supply within the state.
Hamirpur Excise Raid Unmasks Liquor Syndicate
In a separate development, the Excise and Taxation Department conducted a massive five-hour raid in the Pratapnagar area of Hamirpur district. Officials busted a major illegal liquor racket being operated under the guise of a grocery shop.
The departmental team initially recovered 12 cases of liquor from two grocery stores. However, a deeper search of rented rooms associated with the primary suspect led to the discovery of a massive stockpile. Authorities seized over 158 cases of country-made and English liquor, bringing the total seizure to approximately 170 cases.
Main Suspect at Large
The primary accused, identified as Sunny Sehgal, managed to evade capture during the raid and is currently absconding. Investigations revealed that the grocery store premises were rented by Suresh Kumar, a resident of Una district.
SP Hamirpur, Balbir Singh Thakur, confirmed the recovery of the 170 liquor cases and stated that special teams have been formed to apprehend Sehgal. Local residents have raised concerns regarding the longevity of this “black business” and have urged the police to investigate local involvement in the syndicate.
