KOHIMA: Tightening the noose on police personnel neglecting their duty due to substance abuse in the state, Nagaland police have suspended 43 officers under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Speaking during a press conference held at the police headquarters after the launch of the “Made in Nagaland” app on Wednesday, Director General of Police (DGP) Nagaland, Rupin Sharma, stated that there would be no leniency in dealing with such cases and urged reform or consequences.
“Either reform or perish,” Sharma said, cautioning that the actions of a few should not tarnish the entire police department’s reputation.
He disclosed that departmental enquiry (DE) proceedings have been concluded against 23 of the suspended officers, while DE proceedings are still pending against 20 others. In addition to suspensions, seven police personnel have been dismissed from service as part of the disciplinary actions taken.
Encouraging the police force to either reform or face the consequences for their actions, Sharma also informed that the police have seized drugs valued at approximately Rs 25 crore and registered 133 FIRs while arresting 157 individuals involved in drug-related activities between June and August this year.
To involve the public in addressing drug-related concerns, he urged citizens to report cases involving drug users, peddlers, and traffickers to the nearest police station using the newly launched app or WhatsApp.
Taxi drivers too were advised to remain vigilant about passengers and items they transport, as many drug-related incidents have been reported in cabs. The police advised civil society organisations (CSOs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the general public not to detain traffickers without prior information to the police, warning that such detentions could result in charges of wrongful confinement and FIRs being filed.
Sharma also made it clear that civil organisations are not authorised to impose fines on consumers, drug addicts, or traffickers, as this would be considered a crime (extortion). He also urged the public not to engage in illegal vehicle checks or frisking of individuals.
