In a major crackdown on narcotics production, a joint operation by multiple agencies destroyed more than 50 acres of illegal poppy cultivation in the hill ranges of Kangpokpi district on Tuesday.

The coordinated operation was carried out by combined teams of Manipur Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Forest Department officials and personnel from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The action covered the hill ranges of Moljol, Tusam, Vaichei-Naphai and adjoining areas.

During the operation, authorities destroyed approximately 53 acres of poppy fields. Seven temporary huts allegedly used by cultivators were demolished, and a large quantity of farming materials was seized and destroyed. These included 11 bags of fertilisers, 23 bottles of Roundup herbicide and 14 bags of salt.

Law enforcement personnel also burnt equipment used for illegal cultivation, such as spray pumps, pipes and additional herbicides.

Officials said the operation underscores the administration’s sustained efforts to curb narcotics cultivation in Manipur’s hill districts, where illegal poppy farming continues to pose a significant challenge to law enforcement agencies.