Imphal, 31 December (HS): A combined team of Manipur Police, the Forest Department, CRPF, along with an Executive Magistrate, destroyed 40 acres of illicit poppy cultivation in the Mongken area of the Thangjing hill range under Henglep Sub-Division of Churachandpur district on Tuesday.

The operation was carried out as part of the ongoing crackdown against illegal poppy cultivation in the hill districts of the state. During the drive, the team uprooted and destroyed poppy crops spread across a vast area of difficult terrain.

Officials said that six poppy pods were also seized from the spot. The destruction drive was conducted following due legal procedures in the presence of the Executive Magistrate.

Authorities reiterated that such operations would continue to curb illegal drug cultivation and safeguard forest land, while warning those involved that strict action would be taken as per law.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash