Moga’s Daulewala faces tough police crackdown; illegal properties of four smugglers demolished

Once infamous for the smuggling of illicit liquor, poppy husk, and opium, Daulewala — a village located just 32 km from the Moga district headquarters — has now evolved into a notorious hotspot for the sale of heroin, smack, and synthetic drugs over the past few decades.

As part of the state government’s “War Against Drugs" campaign, the Moga police today launched a decisive strike on the village’s entrenched drug network by demolishing illegal properties of four smugglers. The structures, built unlawfully on government land, were razed in the presence of senior district officials and a duty magistrate.

Spread over 581 hectares, Daulewala is home to around 3,300 residents living in approximately 550 houses. Despite its modest size, the village has a troubling legacy as more than 450 individuals — including 70 women — have been booked for smuggling drugs and liquor over the last 30 years.

Over one dozen residents of this village are facing more than 10 FIRs under the NDPS Act and many young and old, including the women of this village are lodged in jail.

In the past, police raids to nab the drug peddlers faced stiff resistance from the residents. “This village had turned into a sanctuary for drug smugglers, but now, that era is coming to an end," said SSP Ajay Gandhi after the demolition operation. He reiterated that state government has adopted a strict zero-tolerance policy, and no drug dealer — regardless of influence or intimidation tactics — will be spared.

Gandhi warned all those involved in narcotics trafficking to abandon the illegal trade immediately or face similar actions, including the demolition of illegal assets. “Punjab’s youth has suffered enough. Saving them from drugs is not just a government mission — it’s a fight for Punjab’s future," he stated.

Punjab