Manipur: Security Forces Destroy 35 Acres of Illegal Poppy Plantations in Ukhrul

Security forces in Manipur have launched one of the largest coordinated crackdowns in recent times against illegal poppy cultivation, targeting areas known for their involvement in the drug trade. Acting jointly with several government agencies, including the Forest Department, the operations spanned multiple districts and aimed to dismantle deeply rooted networks engaged in narcotics production.

The most recent operation took place on 13 November, when a combined team of security personnel conducted a large-scale anti-poppy drive in the Mullam hill range under Litan Police Station in the Ukhrul district. During this mission, nearly 35 acres of poppy fields were identified, uprooted, and subsequently burned. The team also destroyed three makeshift huts located within the plantation area. Authorities believe these huts were constructed by poppy cultivators for temporary accommodation and for storing essential materials used in the farming process.

This operation followed another major crackdown just a day earlier, on 12 November, in the neighboring Kangpokpi district, which has long been recognized as one of the prominent regions involved in poppy cultivation. During this earlier raid, security teams eradicated close to 56 acres of illegal poppy fields. These operations were strategically carried out in two specific areas—first, in the stretch between the Thonglang Akutpa and Songjang hill ranges, and second, in the Awlmun village region under the jurisdiction of Kangchup Police Station. These areas have been identified as major hotspots for organized and systematic poppy farming.

Alongside the destruction of the poppy plants, additional measures were taken to interrupt the operational capacities of the cultivators. Security teams demolished 19 hut-like structures constructed within the plantation zone. These farm huts were reportedly used not only as temporary residences by workers involved in the cultivation but also for processing poppy plants after harvesting. This indicates that the cultivation operations were not small, isolated efforts but rather structured activities with logistical support.

Further, the forces seized 10 bags of fertilizer and 9 sacks of salt, which were discovered at multiple sites. Both materials are commonly used to enhance the growth of poppy plants and maintain soil conditions suitable for narcotics production. These items were subsequently destroyed to prevent reuse and to disrupt future cultivation cycles.

Authorities have confirmed that these back-to-back operations are part of a larger, ongoing campaign to curb drug production and eliminate illegal poppy cultivation across Manipur’s hill districts. Official sources highlighted that such coordinated field actions aim not only to eradicate existing poppy fields but also to send a strong message to cultivators and drug networks operating in remote regions.

Officials emphasized that these operations represent an important step forward in combating the illegal drug trade, which has long been a challenge in the state. They added that similar anti-narcotics drives will continue with increased intensity in the coming weeks, as part of a long-term strategy to secure affected regions and prevent the resurgence of illicit cultivation.