Imphal: The Anti-Narcotic Task Forces (ANTFs) from central and state forces in Manipur destroyed 25 acres of illegally cultivated poppy fields and burnt four temporary huts in separate operations across two tribal-dominated districts of Manipur on January 23, 2026, officials reported on Saturday.
The fully grown poppy plants, capable of producing around Rs 8.7 lakh worth of raw opium, were destroyed in Senapati and Churachandpur districts.
The operations were conducted in the presence of executive magistrates, with drone support for aerial reconnaissance provided by the state forest department.
During the first phase, the team eradicated approximately 15 acres of illegal poppy cultivation at the Zoukhonuam Hill Range under Singngat police station in Churachandpur district.
In the second phase, around 10 acres of illegal poppy cultivation were destroyed at Shirong Hill Range, under Phaibung police station in Senapati district. Four temporary huts were also burnt during the operation.
The operation was carried out under the supervision of the Additional SP (NH-2), who serves as the nodal officer of ANTF, and the overall supervision of the SP of Senapati.
The combined team was led by the OC of Maram police station and included personnel from Maram PS, Phaibung PS, F-36, C-142 CRPF, and the Executive Magistrate.
Officials added that two separate cases have been registered with the concerned police stations, and efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the cultivators and landowners.