Imphal, 21 February (HS): Security forces, in joint operations with the Forest Department and in the presence of Executive Magistrates, destroyed a total of 30 acres of illegal poppy cultivation in separate operations carried out in Manipur in last 24 hours.

In the first operation, 20 acres of poppy plantation were destroyed at Mongken area under Henglep Police Station in Churachandpur district. The operation was conducted as part of the ongoing drive against illegal narcotics cultivation in the state.

In another operation, security forces along with the Forest Department destroyed 10 acres of poppy plantation at Kangjang Hill Range under Mao Police Station in Senapati district. During the drive, three makeshift huts found at the plantation sites were also dismantled.

Officials stated that the operations were carried out under strict supervision and in accordance with legal procedures to curb the cultivation of illegal narcotic crops in the region.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash