Senapati, January 6, 2026: In a decisive blow against illegal narcotics production, a joint team comprising the Senapati Forest Division, police, CRPF, NCB personnel, and village volunteers from Khabung carried out a large-scale operation on Monday to destroy illicit poppy cultivation in the Upper and Lower Khabung Hill Ranges.
The operation resulted in the destruction of approximately 12.9 hectares of illegal poppy fields, along with the burning and dismantling of one temporary hut believed to have been used in connection with the cultivation. Authorities stated that efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend individuals responsible for the illegal activity.
Officials emphasized that illicit poppy cultivation directly contributes to drug trafficking networks and poses a serious risk to public health, safety, and social stability. Cultivation of poppy is a punishable offense under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
The enforcement teams appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities in eliminating illegal poppy farming and urged residents to promptly report any suspicious cultivation or related activities to the nearest police station.
