Tripura Police have identified several locations in Agartala allegedly being used for drug sales and distribution and are preparing to launch targeted action against the network, Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) Manchak Ipper said on Thursday.

Addressing a press conference alongside West Tripura District Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak and West Agartala Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sanjit Sen, Ipper said the police have intensified their anti-drug operations over the past week, with particular emphasis on Agartala city.

“Regular drives are continuing, but we have adopted a more focused ground-level approach, especially in Agartala,” the IGP said.

Police said nearly 4,000 cases have been registered under the NDPS Act across Tripura so far, with more than 5,000 people arrested in connection with the cases.

As part of the latest operation covering areas under the Agartala Municipal Corporation, police identified 115 people allegedly linked to different criminal activities following drug consumption. Ipper said a significant number of them are daily-wage workers who work during the day and allegedly consume drugs in the evening, with some subsequently becoming involved in criminal activities.

The IGP also raised concerns over the consumption of adulterated and poor-quality drugs, which he said pose serious risks to users’ health. He stressed that many people struggling with addiction should be treated as victims requiring medical care and rehabilitation rather than being viewed solely through a criminal lens.

However, police are simultaneously stepping up efforts against those involved in the supply chain.

“We have identified some areas in Agartala and will go deeper into the network. We will soon bust the drug syndicate and racket and arrest the kingpins involved,” Ipper said.

He added that the anti-drug campaign is being conducted across both urban and rural areas, with police making arrests and taking action in different parts of the state.

Ipper said the state government has set a clear objective of making Tripura “Nesha Mukt” (drug-free), with Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha placing strong emphasis on the campaign.

The IGP also called for greater public cooperation, saying that effectively tackling drug abuse will require the active participation of communities, families and various sections of society.