Munish Sood
Mandi
In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, police in Bilaspur district arrested three youths from Mandi after recovering 7.29 grams of heroin from their possession on the Kiratpur–Nerchowk four-lane near Patta.
According to police sources, a team from Sadar Police Station had set up a routine checkpoint on the four-lane as part of ongoing surveillance against narcotics smuggling. During vehicle checking, a car coming from the Kiratpur side was stopped for inspection. Three young men were found travelling in the vehicle.
During questioning, the trio reportedly appeared nervous, raising suspicion among the police personnel. A subsequent search led to the recovery of 7.29 grams of heroin (commonly known as “chitta”) from their possession. The accused were immediately taken into custody.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Tujender Kumar (25), a resident of Lamba Thach in Thunag tehsil; Bhupender (19), a resident of Marot in Gohar under Chachyot tehsil; and Yashpal (18), a resident of Mandap in Bassi under Chachyot tehsil — all from Mandi district.
Confirming the development, Sandeep Dhawal, Superintendent of Police, Bilaspur, stated that a case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the source of the contraband and the intended destination.
Police officials said that intensified checking has been underway on the four-lane in view of rising drug-related activities. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to taking strict action against those involved in narcotics trafficking.
