Drug Peddler Arrested in South Kashmir with 5.6 Kg of Poppy Straw

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday arrested a drug peddler in Kulgam and seized over 5.6 kilograms of poppy straw-like substance during a routine checkpoint inspection, as part of the ongoing crackdown on narcotics in the region.

According to police, a team from Police Station Kulgam intercepted a motorcycle at a checkpoint in Arreh area. The motorcycle, bearing registration number JK05B-4138, was being driven by Waseem Ahmad Dar, son of Habibullah Dar, a resident of Shadab Krewah in Shopian district.

Upon conducting a search, police recovered 5.6 kilograms of contraband substance resembling poppy straw, concealed in a bag carried by the accused. Dar was immediately arrested on the spot, and the motorcycle used in the commission of the crime was also seized.

A formal case has been registered at Police Station Kulgam under FIR No. 72/2025, invoking relevant sections of law. Police have launched a detailed investigation to ascertain the source and intended destination of the seized contraband, and to identify any possible links in the drug network.

The police have urged the public to come forward with information related to drug peddling and help authorities eradicate the menace from society. “People witnessing any suspicious activity are encouraged to report to the nearest police station or dial emergency number 112. We assure the community that strict action will be taken against those involved in drug trafficking,” a police spokesperson said.