Sribhumi (Assam), 25 June (HS): In a major crackdown against the growing menace of narcotics and illegal substances in Assam, the Sribhumi district police seized a huge consignment of banned Phensedyl cough syrup valued at approximately ₹1.10 crore, raising fresh concerns over the scale of drug trafficking networks operating in the region, officials informed on Thursday.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a police team carried out a search operation at Tukarpar-Giriganj area of the district. During the operation, officers intercepted a vehicle and recovered a large quantity of prohibited cough syrup allegedly being transported for illegal distribution. Police estimated the market value of the seized contraband at around ₹1.10 crore.

Three alleged traffickers identified as Anwar Hussain, Atish Dhar and Babla Das were arrested in connection with the case. Authorities have registered a case under the NDPS Act and initiated detailed interrogation of the accused to uncover the broader network behind the smuggling racket.

Investigators suspect that the seizure could be linked to a larger inter-state or cross-border trafficking syndicate. Efforts are underway to determine whether other individuals or organised groups are involved in the illegal trade.

Apart from the narcotics haul, police also dismantled several illegal liquor manufacturing and distribution points across different parts of the district during the ongoing anti-drug drive. Large quantities of illicit liquor were destroyed and related materials seized.

The latest recovery has once again highlighted the serious challenge posed by narcotics and substance abuse in the region. Local residents and various organisations have welcomed the police action and urged authorities to intensify efforts to protect young people from the growing threat of addiction. Police officials asserted that the drive against drugs and illegal liquor will continue with greater vigour in the coming days.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash