Key Facts
In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, the Mandi police conducted two separate operations in the Pungh area on July 11, 2026, seizing a total of 1.426 kg of charas from two cars. Six individuals from Mandi, Kullu, and Hamirpur districts were arrested. The contraband was reportedly destined for Punjab.
Details of the Raids
First Seizure: 914 Grams
Around 9 AM on July 11, police set up a checkpoint in Pungh and stopped a car with temporary registration. During a search, they recovered 914 grams of charas hidden in the dashboard. The occupants—Bablu, a resident of Kinni village in Aut tehsil (Mandi), and Devendra Kumar, from Panvi village in Sainj tehsil (Kullu)—were arrested on the spot. Preliminary interrogation revealed they were transporting the charas for sale.
Second Seizure: 512 Grams
Later that same day, around 5 PM, police stopped another car in the Pungh area and recovered 512 grams of charas. Four individuals were arrested: Harish from Barsogi in Bhuntar tehsil (Kullu), Ritesh Thakur from Dhawali in Dharampur tehsil (Mandi), Akhil from Devkalotiya in Nawahi (Hamirpur), and Vijay from Bakarta in Sarkaghat tehsil (Mandi).
Impact and Investigation
The seizures indicate a well-organized drug trafficking route from Kullu to Punjab. Police are investigating the source of the charas in Kullu and the broader network involved. DSP Sundernagar Bharat Bhushan stated, “The police campaign against drug trafficking will continue.” Two separate FIRs under the NDPS Act have been registered, and further arrests are expected.
What Readers Should Know
- The raids were conducted in Pungh, a known transit point for narcotics.
- All six accused are from Himachal Pradesh, with links to Mandi, Kullu, and Hamirpur districts.
- The consignment was likely destined for Punjab, a major market for illicit drugs.
- Police have intensified patrolling and checkpoints in the region.
FAQ
How much charas was seized in the Pungh drug raid?
A total of 1.426 kg of charas was seized from two separate cars during police checkpoints in Pungh area of Mandi district.
How many people were arrested in the Pungh drug case?
Six people were arrested in two separate cases. They hail from Mandi, Kullu, and Hamirpur districts.
Where was the charas consignment headed?
According to police, the charas was being transported from Kullu to Punjab for supply.
What legal action has been taken?
Two separate FIRs under the NDPS Act have been registered, and an investigation is underway to trace the source and network.