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Noida Police : Official statistics reveal a slight uptick in drug and liquor smuggling cases in Noida and Greater Noida in 2023 compared to the previous year. The number of cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act witnessed a 6% increase, while cases registered under the Excise Act saw an 11% rise. This surge is attributed to intensified police action and the establishment of a more robust intelligence network.
The year 2023 saw notable achievements, including the busting of two meth labs operated by foreign nationals in residential areas of Greater Noida. The police seized drugs estimated to be worth ₹300 crore in the international market. A particularly significant event was the confiscation of 77 kg of methamphetamine, leading to the arrest of 12 foreign nationals.
According to official data, 559 cases were registered under the NDPS Act in 2023, up from 528 in 2022 and 391 in 2021. Similarly, 983 cases were filed under the Excise Act, reflecting an increase from 877 in 2022 and 849 in 2021. The spike in NDPS cases this year represents a 6% rise from the previous year and a notable 43% surge from 2021. Cases under the Excise Act increased by 11% compared to 2022 and 14% compared to 2021.
Noida Police Chief Laxmi Singh attributes the rise in cases to the establishment of a robust manual intelligence network. The flow of information and tip-offs has increased, enabling law enforcement to crack down on drug and liquor smugglers. Singh emphasizes the dedication of a specialized team following drug trails, leading to the apprehension of suppliers. Monthly enforcement drives have also played a role in keeping the police vigilant.
To combat drug and liquor smuggling, Gangster Act was invoked against 29 individuals involved in drug trafficking and 6 in liquor smuggling. A total of 646 suspects were arrested under the NDPS Act in 2023. The police seized significant quantities of marijuana, hash, and MDMA. The launch of an anti-narcotics helpline facilitated the crackdown on drug peddling gangs, particularly in private universities in Noida and Greater Noida.
Former Director General of Police, Dr (Prof) Vikram Singh, views the increased number of cases as a sign of heightened police activity. He notes that actions are being taken against smugglers who were previously operating freely in Noida and Greater Noida. The year’s highlight, the seizure of 77 kg of methamphetamine and the arrest of foreign nationals, underscores the gravity of the ongoing efforts to combat illicit activities in the region.
