In a sweeping crackdown on narcotics, Tripura Police have intensified their anti-drug operations across the state, resulting in massive seizures worth over ₹134 crore and the arrest of 16 individuals over a span of just 10 days. The drive, launched under the state’s “Zero Tolerance” policy against drugs, was announced by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on October 18, 2025, who lauded the coordinated efforts between law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
The seizures include 896 kilograms of cannabis, 90,617 bottles of banned cough syrup, 180 Yaba tablets, and 27.78 grams of heroin, recovered from multiple districts including Unakoti, Sepahijala, West Tripura, and South Tripura. The operation also led to the registration of 15 NDPS cases, with the accused now facing charges under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
🧠 Key Highlights of Tripura’s Anti-Drug Operation
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation Duration | 10 days (October 8–18, 2025) |
| Total Seizure Value | ₹134 crore |
| Cannabis Seized | 896 kg |
| Banned Cough Syrup Bottles | 90,617 |
| Yaba Tablets | 180 |
| Heroin | 27.78 grams |
| Arrests Made | 16 |
| NDPS Cases Registered | 15 |
| Districts Covered | Unakoti, Sepahijala, West Tripura, South Tripura |
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state is committed to “freeing Tripura from the menace of drugs” and will continue to pursue all key players involved in the trafficking network.
📊 Timeline of Tripura’s Anti-Narcotics Drive
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| October 8 | Launch of intensified anti-drug operation |
| October 12 | First major seizure in Unakoti district |
| October 15 | Arrests made in Sepahijala and West Tripura |
| October 18 | CM Manik Saha announces results of 10-day drive |
The operation was supported by border intelligence units, given Tripura’s 856-km porous border with Bangladesh, which has historically been exploited for cross-border drug smuggling.
🗣️ Reactions from State Officials, Citizens, and Anti-Narcotics Experts
- Tripura CM Manik Saha: “We are resolute in our mission to protect our youth and dismantle drug cartels.”
- Police Commissioner Amitabh Ranjan: “This is just the beginning. We are expanding surveillance and inter-agency coordination.”
- Citizens on Social Media: “Finally, action with impact. Tripura deserves a drug-free future.”
| Stakeholder Group | Reaction Summary |
|---|---|
| State Government | Committed to long-term anti-drug strategy |
| Law Enforcement | Scaling up intelligence and border patrol |
| Citizens | Welcoming crackdown, demanding rehab support |
| Experts | Calling for integrated rehab and awareness |
The police have also initiated community outreach programs to educate youth on the dangers of drug abuse and promote rehabilitation.
🧾 Comparative Snapshot: Anti-Drug Seizures in Northeast India (2025)
| State | Cannabis (kg) | Cough Syrup Bottles | Arrests | Value of Seizures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tripura | 896 | 90,617 | 16 | ₹134 crore |
| Assam | 520 | 45,000 | 12 | ₹78 crore |
| Manipur | 300 | 20,000 | 9 | ₹52 crore |
| Mizoram | 150 | 12,000 | 6 | ₹34 crore |
Tripura currently leads the region in both volume and value of narcotics seized in 2025.
🧭 What to Watch in Tripura’s Anti-Drug Strategy
- Expansion of Surveillance: Use of drones and AI-based tracking at border points
- Legal Proceedings: Fast-track trials under NDPS Act
- Rehabilitation Push: State to launch new de-addiction centres in Agartala and Dharmanagar
- Inter-State Coordination: Joint task forces with Assam and Mizoram under review
The state government is also considering amendments to local enforcement protocols to enable quicker asset seizures and financial tracking of drug networks.
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified government briefings, law enforcement reports, and media coverage as of October 19, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute legal advice, enforcement endorsement, or policy forecasting and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
