Jalandhar police demolish illegal encroachments linked to drug traffickers

In a continued crackdown on drug traffickers and illegal encroachments, Jalandhar Rural Police, in collaboration with local authorities, have demolished unauthorized structures built on encroached panchayat land in Khanpur and Mandi villages of Phillaur.

The structures, illegally occupied by two individuals with a known history of drug smuggling, were removed following legal procedures.

Providing details to the media, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jalandhar Rural, Harkamal Preet Singh Khakh, stated that the demolition drive was carried out after a request from the Block Development and Panchayat Officer (BDPO) Phillaur, who sought police support in clearing the encroachments.

The action targeted Jasvir Singh alias Sheera, son of Dalveer alias Bur, from Khanpur, and Bholi, wife of Rampal alias Rama, from Mandi, both of whom had unlawfully taken over village panchayat land.

According to official records, Bholi has a history of drug-related offenses, including multiple cases under the NDPS Act. Her criminal record includes a 1.190 kg smack recovery in 2005, a 2 kg poppy husk seizure in 2015, and a substantial drug recovery in 2022.

Similarly, Jasvir Singh alias Sheera has also been implicated in various cases, including one involving a commercial quantity of charas and illegal injections.

SSP Khakh confirmed that the police, along with revenue and panchayat officials, ensured a smooth demolition process, with sufficient security deployed to prevent any disturbances. Authorities reiterated that the encroached land rightfully belongs to the gram panchayat and was unlawfully occupied by the accused.

Emphasizing the commitment to eliminating illegal encroachments linked to criminal networks, SSP Khakh assured that Jalandhar Rural Police will continue its efforts to prevent individuals from benefiting from proceeds of crime or unauthorized possession of public land.

He also encouraged citizens to report such illegal activities, promising strict and immediate action against offenders.

SSP Khakh noted that local residents had reported instances of the accused intimidating and threatening villagers.

Meanwhile, Khanpur Village Sarpanch, Paramjit Kaur, along with local residents, praised the Punjab Government’s firm action against drug smugglers. "We welcome such measures by the Punjab government to eradicate the drug menace from the state," they stated.