Tripura Police Crackdown on Drug Abuse Leads to Detection of HIV Cases
In a targeted anti-drug operation conducted in West Tripura on June 17, Tripura Police detained nearly 80 individuals as part of efforts to combat substance abuse ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26. The operation, which focused on known hotspots like Gulbazar, Heritage Park, and Gwala Basti, was a collaborative effort involving teams from various departments including the Traffic Department, East and West Agartala Police Stations, and the Superintendent of Police office.
Most of those detained were found in possession of ganja and other narcotic substances, leading to their immediate transfer to rehabilitation centers for treatment. However, during the screening process, a concerning development arose as a significant number of detainees tested positive for HIV. Health officials present at the scene confirmed the diagnoses and initiated care coordination for the affected individuals.
To provide support to those affected, more than 15 NGOs operating in the district have come forward to offer HIV medication and psychological counseling. A campaign coordinator stated, “We are making every effort to help them return to a healthier lifestyle and reintegrate into society.”
Dr. Kiran Kumar K, IPS, Superintendent of Police, West Tripura, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the police department in combating substance abuse. “As part of our de-addiction campaign, we conduct drives four times a month, or once every 15 days,” he explained. “Today, in the West Tripura district, we apprehended around 70 to 80 individuals from various locations based on complaints from residents about evening gatherings involving drug use.”
Dr. Kiran emphasized the importance of involving civil society groups in the rehabilitation process to ensure that those affected receive the necessary support. “We are making every effort to ensure that these individuals can return to their previous, healthier state and lead normal lives again,” he stated.
Officials confirmed that similar operations would continue as part of a broader state strategy to tackle substance abuse, with a dual focus on law enforcement and health intervention. The crackdown on drug abuse in Tripura is an ongoing effort to create a safer and healthier community for all residents.
