Work in tandem with anti-drug STF: CM to SSPS

CHANDIGARH : Chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday directed senior superintendents of police (SSPS) and commissioners of police to work in tandem with the special task force (STF) to nab big sharks running the drug mafia in Punjab.

Addressing a high-level meeting of DCS and SSPS at the Punjab Bhawan, the CM said in case any incident of drug supply comes to his notice from any part of the state, the SSP or police commissioner concerned would be held accountable.

The CM also asked police officials to swing into action if someone lodges a complaint about drug trafficking. He said no laxity would be tolerated at any cost as its supply chain would have to be broken to save the youth.

‘Don’t disclose price of drugs seized’

The CM also directed the director general of police to issue guidelines to all the SSPS not to disclose the price of drugs seized during recovery in the international market as this practice attracts innocent people to make quick buck. He, however, said that rest of the information regarding quantity seized, location of recovery and the details of accused could be made public.

Mann asked the health and police departments to work in close coordination with a focus to adopt reformist approach towards petty offenders. He stated that OOAT clinics are being increased from existing 208 to 500 immediately to facilitate the drug addicts to get easy access for treatment within a radius of 5-6 km from their residence.

Warns singers promoting gun culture

Mann also warned those singers who allegedly promote gun culture through their songs. He disapproved of propping up such a trend and said those found involved will be dealt with sternly. Mann, the comedianturned-politician, condemned the “trend of gun culture and gangsterism being promoted by some Punjabi singers” and urged them “to desist from fanning violence, hatred and animosity in the society through their songs”.