Ahmedabad/Surat, June 26 (IANS) Gujarat Police marked the ‘International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking’ on Friday with large-scale public awareness events in Ahmedabad and Surat, as senior officers reiterated the state’s commitment to tackling narcotics trafficking and preventing drug abuse through sustained enforcement and community participation.

In Ahmedabad, the Gujarat Police’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) organised a cyclothon at the Sabarmati Riverfront to spread awareness against drug abuse.

Director General of Police (DGP) and Ahmedabad Police Commissioner, G.S. Malik, flagged off the event, which was attended by police personnel, officials, students and members of the public.

Speaking on the occasion, Malik said June 26, observed globally as the International Day Against Drug Abuse, provided an opportunity to reinforce awareness about the growing challenges posed by narcotics.

“On this occasion, a cyclothon was organised here. Police SPs, other staff, as well as private individuals and members of the public also participated in it. The main objective was to raise awareness among people, as drug-related issues and challenges are increasing,” he said.

The cyclothon formed part of a special awareness initiative organised by the ANTF under the message of strengthening collective resolve towards a “drug-free India”.

In Surat, the city police organised a public awareness rally that drew participation from senior police officers, students from schools and colleges, local residents, non-governmental organisations and media representatives.

The rally was held to promote awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and encourage public participation in anti-drug efforts.

Surat Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot said the city police had been organising the annual rally for several years to reaffirm its commitment against narcotics.

“International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed. For the past several years, Surat City Police has been organising a rally on this day. Students from schools and colleges, the general public, NGOs, voluntary organisations, and media persons also participate in it. On this day, we show our unity and commitment that throughout the coming year we will continue to fight against drugs and take strict action,” Gehlot said.

The awareness drives came a day after the state government released figures highlighting its anti-narcotics enforcement over the past five years.

According to official data, police have registered more than 3,700 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, arrested 5,346 accused and seized more than 1.36 lakh kilograms of narcotic substances valued at over Rs 13,600 crore during the period.

Officials said the state has also strengthened its anti-drug framework through the dedicated forces, technology-driven investigations and reward schemes for actionable Intelligence, alongside de-addiction and rehabilitation initiatives.

–IANS

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