The Meghalaya government has ordered the one-year detention of five repeat drug traffickers under the Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PITNDPS) Act, officials announced on Wednesday.
The move follows the recommendation of a three-member Advisory Board headed by a retired Chief Justice, in accordance with Section 31 of the Act, said Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh. The detained individuals are Pynhoi Nongtula Puni (35) of Thadlaskien, West Jaintia Hills; Hubert Lamphrang Palar alias Lungrit (22) of Mawdong Pyndengrei, West Khasi Hills; Marwil Nangbah alias Marwil (49) of Lumpari, Jowai; Rintu G Saika alias Pratap (35) of Nongrim Hills; and Aisha Khatoon alias Pahari (50) of Lower Paltan Bazar.
Lyngdoh noted that since August 2024, the government has successfully obtained detention orders against five repeat offenders, all approved by the Advisory Board before enforcement. “This reflects the state’s firm commitment to curbing illicit drug trafficking and safeguarding public health,” he said. Highlighting the intensified crackdown, the minister cited a recent seizure of drugs worth ₹4 crore in East Jaintia Hills, one of the largest busts in the state’s history.Lyngdoh also announced that members of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) who played a key role in recent operations will be honoured with cash awards and certificates at a programme to be held at the ANTF Directorate in Golflink on Thursday.