The Gujarat government is set to launch six new Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) units across the state, aiming to intensify efforts against drug trafficking, sale, and production. The units will be established in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, and the Border Zone, ensuring coverage across all regions of Gujarat.
Officials said that the formation of these units will strengthen the existing Narcotics Cell. Currently, the cell operates with 34 officers and staff, but with the ANTF in place, sanctioned manpower will increase to 211.
The expansion will include 177 new appointments, comprising one Superintendent of Police, six Deputy Superintendents of Police, and 13 Police Inspectors. All personnel attached to the task force will focus exclusively on offences under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, with overall command remaining with CID Crime.
Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi stated, &ldquo;Through these units, enhanced level action will be taken across Gujarat against drug mafias, suppliers, and peddlers linked to narcotics networks.&rdquo;
Director General of Police Vikas Sahay highlighted that the newly designated zonal police stations would ensure closer coordination during investigations.
&ldquo;The task force would bring uniformity and thoroughness to investigations, making it easier to secure stringent penalties for offenders. He described the step as historic and vital for realising the goal of a drug-free Gujarat,&rdquo; Sahay said.
The task force framework includes a clear oversight plan. In NDPS cases filed at local police stations, investigations will be supervised both &ldquo;top-to-bottom&rdquo; and &ldquo;bottom-to-top,&rdquo; a system expected to improve operational efficiency.
Each unit will also house a specialised data analysis and intelligence division to track repeat offenders, map narcotics syndicates, and identify inter-state operatives. By consolidating such information and performing detailed analysis, the ANTF aims to conduct more focused and aggressive operations against illicit drug networks.
Officials confirmed that the task force will bolster action under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (PIT NDPS). Similar to measures under the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act (PASA), the added intelligence support will enable quicker and tougher action against individuals involved in organised narcotics crime.

177 officers added as Gujarat strengthens crackdown on drug trafficking and syndicates

Gujarat to Set Up Six New Anti-Narcotics Task Unit

177 officers added as Gujarat strengthens crackdown on drug trafficking and syndicates

August 25, 2025 | 23:02 IST