Tripura police, forest officials, and security forces conducted a large-scale anti-drug operation in Sepahijala district, where they uprooted and destroyed 2.87 lakh ganja plants. The crackdown took place in the Sonamura subdivision, a region known for illegal cannabis farming.
This action marks one of the biggest seizures in the state’s ongoing fight against narcotics. The drive not only curbed illicit farming but also sent a strong message to drug cultivators along the border.
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Massive Ganja Fields Found in Forest Zones
The team launched the operation after receiving intelligence about widespread cannabis cultivation in forest areas. Officers surveyed the location using drones and local inputs. They located multiple ganja fields hidden deep inside the forest, close to the India-Bangladesh border.
Authorities entered the area early in the morning to avoid confrontation. Armed with axes and machetes, the joint team uprooted cannabis plants spread across more than 100 hectares. They destroyed the plants on the spot to prevent further movement or harvesting.
This development adds to a growing list of reports with the phrase Tripura ganja plants destroyed as the government intensifies its crackdown on illegal farming.
Intelligence Inputs Led to Swift Action
Police acted on detailed reports gathered over several weeks. Informants from nearby villages and drone surveillance helped identify specific locations. Officers explained that growers use these dense forest areas to hide cultivation from the authorities.
“By the time police reach the fields, many cultivators vanish,” said a senior officer. “They work in small teams, and their routes are well-planned. But this time, we acted faster and cleared the entire region.”
The team used controlled fire to burn the plants in a safe zone. Police and forest guards stayed on alert throughout the operation.
No Arrests, But Probe Underway
Although no arrests took place during the raid, the investigation continues. Police suspect that known offenders in the region operate these plantations seasonally. They often avoid detection by planting during specific windows when surveillance is weak.
Officers collected physical evidence from the site. They found plastic pipes, makeshift camps, and fertilizer packets — all of which help trace the individuals involved.
A case has been registered. Investigators are also using satellite images and past records to identify repeat offenders.
Tripura’s Growing Push Against Narcotics
Tripura has seen a steady rise in drug-related activities due to its location along the international border. Cannabis cultivation in the hill and forest belts has become a serious concern. In response, the state government launched a zero-tolerance policy against drugs.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has reiterated that no illegal activity will be tolerated. He emphasized that drug trafficking and cultivation destroy families and weaken the future of youth.
The phrase Tripura ganja plants destroyed has now become a regular feature in press briefings related to anti-narcotics work in the state.
Border Security Forces On High Alert
The India-Bangladesh border near Sonamura is known for cross-border smuggling. After the operation, BSF personnel increased patrolling in vulnerable zones. Security teams have already sealed some of the unofficial paths that traffickers use.
Officials say smuggling usually spikes right after harvest season. Quick action can prevent cannabis from reaching external markets. Therefore, authorities continue to monitor these locations even after the raids.
In addition, fencing work near high-risk border points has picked up pace. The state has also requested support from central agencies for tech-based surveillance.
Local Support Growing Against Drug Farming
Village councils and local youth groups have started working with police. Many panchayats have passed resolutions declaring their areas “ganja-free zones.” Social workers are also running awareness campaigns in schools and colleges.
The government is offering farming alternatives to those who give up drug cultivation. Subsidies for pineapple, rubber, and bamboo farming have attracted positive responses in a few areas.
“We want to give them a reason to stop,” said a forest officer. “If they can earn legally, they will stay away from such risky practices.”
This mix of enforcement and welfare seems to be working slowly but surely.
What’s Next for the State
The state police will continue regular raids across suspected zones. Officials have promised to expand drone surveillance and track new cultivation early. The goal is to prevent planting, not just harvest destruction.
Officers are also working on mapping cannabis-prone regions. This data will help create a zone-wise action plan for the next two years.
In the coming weeks, the state will launch a special drive in Dhalai and Gomati districts. Both areas reported signs of small-scale cultivation this season.
With Tripura ganja plants destroyed in such large numbers, the crackdown in Sepahijala marks a clear warning. The state is moving fast and firmly against drug networks. However, lasting success will require both police action and community support.
The latest operation shows that Tripura’s war on drugs is far from over. But each uprooted plant brings the state a step closer to a cleaner, safer future.
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