Dharmanagar, June 21, 2025: In a major breakthrough in Tripura’s anti-drug operations, police on Saturday arrested a 23-year-old youth in possession of heroin worth approximately ₹5.5 lakh. The arrest took place near Dharmanagar Railway Station in North Tripura District.
Acting on a tip-off, the North District Police launched a special operation and intercepted the accused while he was waiting at a secluded spot near the railway station. Upon searching his belongings, officers recovered 55 grams of heroin concealed in soap cases.
Arrest Part of Ongoing Crackdown
Superintendent of Police Bhanupada Chakraborty confirmed the development. He said, “The youth was caught red-handed with heroin intended for local distribution. We have stepped up our surveillance and enforcement, particularly around transit points like railway stations.”
This arrest is part of a larger crackdown being carried out by the Tripura Police under the ‘Nasha Mukt Tripura’ campaign, aimed at reducing drug trafficking and abuse in the state. North Tripura, especially border-adjacent areas, has seen a rise in smuggling attempts, as traffickers use porous borders and transport hubs to move contraband.
Accused Sent to Police Custody
The arrested individual, identified as Rahul Debnath, is a resident of a nearby village in the Panisagar subdivision. He reportedly confessed to receiving the consignment from a supplier in a neighbouring state. Police suspect that the drugs were meant for distribution within Dharmanagar and nearby areas.
Debnath was produced before a local court on Sunday and remanded to five days’ police custody for further interrogation. Authorities are now probing the network behind the operation, aiming to trace both the supplier and potential local dealers.
Heroin Seizures on the Rise in Tripura
This incident adds to a growing list of heroin seizures in Tripura. According to government data, heroin worth over ₹15 crore has been seized in the first half of 2025 alone. The state’s proximity to the India-Myanmar border and the Golden Triangle region has made it a trafficking route for narcotics.
Just last month, the Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and police in Agartala seized heroin worth ₹2 crore in a joint operation. Authorities believe that a coordinated network spanning multiple northeastern states is responsible for these shipments.
Government’s Push Against Narcotics
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has consistently emphasised zero tolerance against drug trafficking. Speaking at an event earlier this year, he stated, “Drugs are a threat to our youth and to the future of Tripura. Our administration will not rest until we dismantle every last link in the drug supply chain.”
Under his leadership, anti-drug drives have intensified, and awareness campaigns have been rolled out across schools and colleges. Further, the state government has also established rehabilitation centres to provide support for addicts seeking recovery.
Public Support Key to Success
Police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities in their neighbourhoods. In recent years, local tip-offs have played a crucial role in successful drug busts across the state.
The Tripura Police have also introduced a 24×7 helpline number and anonymous reporting options via WhatsApp to encourage public participation.
What Lies Ahead
The latest arrest at Dharmanagar Railway Station is being viewed as a significant step in curbing heroin distribution in North Tripura. Investigations are expected to lead to more arrests in the coming days as the police close in on the broader trafficking ring.
As Tripura strengthens its security net, authorities hope that these persistent efforts will reduce the drug menace. Moreover, and safeguard the future of its youth.
For more updates on Tripura’s anti-drug efforts, follow Tripura Police and visit our website for more such related news.
