The Election Commission (EC) reported on May 18 that election-time seizures in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls have reached a staggering ₹8,889 crore, surpassing all previous elections. Drugs constituted a significant 45% of the haul, valued at ₹3,958 crore. The EC emphasized the importance of combating the illegal flow of narcotics and psychoactive substances, recognizing a concerning trend of transit zones evolving into consumption territories.
In coordinated actions, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended over 200 illegal immigrants with drug-related convictions, including trafficking and possession of cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin. Additionally, Swedish customs officials have made a historic seizure of approximately 1.4 tons of cocaine at Nynashamn port near Stockholm. Six individuals have been arrested in connection with the smuggling operation.
Telangana has seen a significant surge in drug seizures in the first quarter of 2024, with close to 500 cases registered and over 980 arrests made. Ganja topped the list of seized drugs, followed by ganja chocolates and hash oil. The rise in drug use, particularly among minors, has prompted the state to focus on demand reduction through awareness campaigns and enforcement drives.
