The Meghalaya Police destroyed nearly 10 tonnes of illegally grown cannabis in the East Khasi Hills district. The operation, carried out on Tuesday, is part of the state’s intensified campaign against narcotics production and trafficking.
Officials confirmed that the massive destruction took place after days of surveillance and coordination between different units of the Meghalaya Police. The team traced the illegal plantation spread across remote forested areas, where cultivators had been secretly growing cannabis for several months.
Superintendent of Police (SP) East Khasi Hills, Rituraj Ravi, said the operation reflects the department’s firm stance against the growing threat of drug cultivation in the state. He added that such illegal activities not only harm the youth but also fuel organized criminal networks.
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Massive Operation in Remote Locations
The anti-narcotics team, supported by local police and forest officials, conducted the raid in areas that were difficult to access due to dense vegetation and rough terrain. According to officials, the operation lasted several hours as officers cut down and burned the cannabis plants on-site.
The Meghalaya Police destroy cannabis plantations weighing around 10 tonnes, marking one of the largest seizures in recent years. The plants were spread over several acres of land, suggesting that the cultivation was being carried out on a large scale.
SP Rituraj Ravi said that the operation was planned following weeks of intelligence gathering. The police used drone mapping and field reconnaissance to identify the exact location of the cultivation zones. He also stated that the team worked cautiously to ensure that no cultivators escaped during the raid.
Crackdown Reflects State’s Zero-Tolerance Policy
The Meghalaya government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal drug production and distribution. The recent operation in East Khasi Hills highlights the administration’s commitment to tackling the drug menace that has been slowly spreading across parts of the state.
The Meghalaya Police destroy cannabis plantations as part of a wider anti-drug strategy launched earlier this year. The campaign focuses on both enforcement and awareness, aiming to prevent cultivation and reduce consumption among youth.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has also repeatedly emphasized the need for a coordinated approach involving local communities, village councils, and youth groups. According to him, the success of such missions depends on public participation and strong law enforcement.
The East Khasi Hills police have already registered a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Investigations are ongoing to identify the individuals or groups behind the illegal cultivation. Authorities suspect that the growers may have ties to regional drug traffickers operating along interstate borders.
Use of Technology and Community Support
The recent crackdown was made possible through a combination of modern technology and grassroots cooperation. Police officials said that local villagers provided crucial information that led to the discovery of the cannabis fields. Their role was vital, as many plantations are often hidden deep within forested hills, far from public view.
The Meghalaya Police destroy cannabis plants after verifying the reports with drone footage and ground surveillance. Officials said that the use of technology has significantly improved the effectiveness of anti-narcotics operations.
The SP acknowledged the support of local community leaders, stating that such collaboration reflects growing public awareness about the dangers of drug cultivation. He urged citizens to continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious activities.
Impact on Drug Network and Youth Awareness
The destruction of 10 tonnes of cannabis is a major setback for illegal cultivators and drug networks operating in the region. Police said that this action will disrupt the supply chain and reduce the availability of narcotics in nearby areas.
Meghalaya Police destroy cannabis not only to curb supply but also to send a strong message against drug-related crimes. The operation demonstrates that authorities are determined to eliminate the problem from its root.
Officials added that educational campaigns are being launched in schools and colleges to raise awareness about drug abuse. These initiatives are expected to strengthen the government’s long-term strategy to safeguard young people from addiction and criminal influence.
The SP mentioned that tackling the drug problem requires consistent action, as traffickers often shift cultivation sites to remote areas to evade detection. Therefore, continuous surveillance and inter-district coordination are crucial to ensure lasting success.
Commitment to a Drug-Free Meghalaya
Meghalaya has been witnessing a rise in drug-related cases over the past few years, with cannabis and synthetic drugs being among the most commonly seized substances. The recent operation shows that the police are committed to reversing this trend through proactive enforcement.
By ensuring that illegally grown cannabis fields are completely destroyed, the Meghalaya Police aim to discourage future cultivators from engaging in similar activities. The SP said that the department will intensify patrolling in vulnerable zones to prevent replantation.
The state government also plans to introduce alternative livelihood programs for farmers in high-risk areas. These initiatives will provide sustainable income sources, helping them move away from illegal cultivation practices.
A Strong Message Against Illegal Drug Cultivation
The successful destruction of 10 tonnes of cannabis in East Khasi Hills marks a significant milestone in Meghalaya’s war on drugs. It highlights the determination of law enforcement agencies to ensure a safer and healthier society.
Hailing the operation as a victory for both police and public cooperation, the SP said that such missions are only the beginning. He added that the fight against narcotics is a continuous effort that requires the involvement of every citizen.
As the Meghalaya Police destroy cannabis plantations and dismantle drug networks, the message is clear: the state stands united against the narcotics trade. The operation serves as a reminder that law and community partnership can together achieve meaningful change.
With continued vigilance, public awareness, and policy support, Meghalaya hopes to move closer to its goal of becoming a drug-free state — where its youth can thrive without the shadow of addiction or exploitation.
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