1.3K peddlers held in Shimla in 20 months

Over the past 20 months, Shimla police have arrested more than 1,300 drug peddlers. Cops seized over 6 kg heroin during the same period. The arrests include those of several inter-state illicit drug kingpins and gangs — Shashi Negi, alias Shahi Mahatma; Radhe Gang; and Ranjan syndicate, who were responsible for supplying drugs, especially chitta (heroin), in the upper Shimla regions of Rohru, Kotkhai, Jubbal, Kumarsain, Rampur and Theog.

Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi said the police had devised a social integrated intelligence network system (SIINS), under which police had prepared a list of drug peddlers. “We have also developed a good network with taxi, bus and hotel operators,” he added

He said the police has started a district-wide Operation Clean campaign to curb the drug menace. “Our special investigation cells are working to crack down on peddlers. As a result, this year, there is a noticeable decrease in drug supply, especially of chitta. Our goal is to completely eradicate drug menace from the district,” he said.