Pune, 1st August 2026: Pune Police have stepped up their anti-narcotics campaign under the ‘Drug-Free Pune’ initiative, registering 162 cases under the NDPS Act and arresting 283 accused so far this year.
During these operations, police seized narcotics and other property worth ₹11.28 crore, Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said.
The police have also launched strict action against repeat drug traffickers by invoking provisions of the PIT NDPS Act and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) wherever applicable. In July alone, 138 cases were registered against individuals found consuming narcotic substances.
Alongside enforcement, Pune Police have expanded efforts to prevent drug abuse among young people through awareness programs. Under the Secure Horizon and Campus Connect initiatives, police conducted 104 awareness sessions in schools and colleges across the city.
At a programme held at Ganesh Kala Krida Manch, Swargate, students watched a short film explaining the harmful effects of drug addiction and took a pledge to stay away from narcotics.
Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said the administration is also monitoring identified drug hotspots through monthly NCORD meetings chaired by the District Collector, ensuring better coordination among different government departments.
"Our approach is not limited to enforcement. Along with strict action against drug traffickers, we are focusing on awareness, prevention, and rehabilitation to build a drug-free Pune," Commissioner Amitesh Kumar said.
In a significant development, Pune Police have also taken a rehabilitation-based approach for drug-dependent offenders. In an NDPS case registered at Nanded City Police Station, an accused admitted to the offence and expressed willingness to undergo treatment for addiction.
Based on the police report, the court directed the accused to undergo treatment at a de-addiction centre for one month instead of being sent to prison. A final report will be submitted to the court after the treatment.
According to police, the order was issued under Section 64A of the NDPS Act, making it the first known case in Pune city and possibly Maharashtra where an accused has been diverted to rehabilitation instead of incarceration under this provision.