Shillong: The Meghalaya government has ordered the year-long detention of five repeat drug traffickers under the Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act, Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh announced on Wednesday.
The decision followed recommendations from a three-member Advisory Board chaired by a retired Chief Justice, under Section 31 of the Act.
The detainees have been identified as Pynhoi Nongtdu alias Pun (35) of Thadlaskein in West Jaintia Hills, Hubert Lamphrang Paliar alias Lungrit (22) of Mawiong Pyndengrei in West Khasi Hills, Marwil Nangbah alias Marwil (49) of Lumpariat in Jowai, Rintu G Saika alias Pratap (35) of Nongrim Hills, and Aisha Khatoon alias Pahari (50) of Lower Paltan Bazar.
“Since August 2024, the government has secured detention orders against five traffickers. These cases were referred to the Advisory Board, and on its approval, the detention was enforced,” Lyngdoh told reporters.
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He added that the state has stepped up its anti-drug operations, highlighting a recent seizure of narcotics worth Rs. 4 crore in East Jaintia Hills — one of the biggest in the state’s history.
The minister further announced that members of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) who demonstrated exceptional bravery will be honoured with cash awards and certificates at a felicitation programme scheduled at the ANTF Directorate in Golflink on Thursday.
