Mayabunder, Jan 8: The North & Middle Andaman District has demonstrated remarkable progress in the year 2023, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a secure and informed community. A series of initiatives aimed at curbing illegal activities, ensuring road safety, and enhancing public awareness have been implemented, contributing to a safer and more informed society.

The district has intensified efforts to combat illegal activities through proactive measures. Out of 484 registered cases, 472 cases have been worked out, achieving a remarkable 97% detection rate. The District Police also successfully resolved 100% of the heinous cases, including 01 murder and 02 rape cases, with all culprits brought to justice. All 29 POCSO cases have been worked out; achieved in curtailing unlawful practices, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.

The District Police also displayed their efficiency in effectively handling the Narcotics and Excise Cases, adding that 17 NDPS cases were registered, leading to the arrest of 22 individuals and substantial seizures, including 16.342 kg of Ganja and 2.77 gm of Methamphetamine. 342 Nos.Excise cases were registered which resulted in the arrest of 342 persons and significant seizures, such as 914 litres of IMFL, 196 litres of illicit liquor and 901 kgs of handia. Apart from that, 13,340 litres of premature liquor wash (Lehan) were also destroyed.

Apart of maintaining law & order, this district have conducted 1265 awareness programs, covering major issues like POCSO awareness, Cybercrime, and drug awareness. Further, 242 community interactions to improve positive relationships with senior citizens, PRI members, and Fishermen watch groups were facilitated. In addition, N & M A Police introduced initiatives like “HUNAR” a skill development program to lessen victimization of youths in criminal activities, "SWARAKSHA" to empower the girls with self-defense in which 3000 girls students were trained with self defence techniques, “SWALAMBAN” to empower women from all walks of life to participate in the athletic meet and organised a trekking to Saddle Peak, the highest peak of the A&N Islands, “OPERATION ENDEAVOUR EDUCATION”, an initiative being guided and mentored by National level educational experts (New Delhi) to provide pragmatic guidance and curriculum for preparation of various competitive exams for the local college students, “SELF-LOVE” an initiative along with Prayas (NGO) to empower youths through a week-long awareness program on suicidal prevention. A cricket tournament as “SP Cup-2023” was also organised for promoting sports and cordial Police-Public relation.

In a bid to make roads safer for all, the North & Middle Andaman District Police has rigorously enforced traffic regulations by issuing 5613 challans and collecting fines amounting to Rs. 32,30,600/-. 565 individuals were booked for drunken driving, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to road safety. This initiative aims to reduce road accidents and create a culture of responsible driving, ultimately enhancing the overall safety of the community.

With regard to legal proceedings, 3941 summons were received and 3937 of them were served. 235 warrants were received and 234 warrants were executed, ensuring the swift and effective administration of justice. With regard to Law and Order, the District Police has displayed excellent performance in maintaining Law & Order, ensuring peace and security in the District. Adding that VIP arrangements were seamlessly executed and flawless security were provided during VIP visits.

Poaching activities by Foreigners in the Islands territories is one of the major challenges of the N&MA Police. During the year 2023, a total of 53 Nos. were apprehended. The staffs of anti-poaching team have shown exemplary bravery despite unfavourable terrain and inclement weather.

Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, North & Middle Andaman District, expressed satisfaction with the progress made in 2023. Our collective efforts have yielded tangible results in creating a safer and more informed community. We remain committed to building on these achievements and continuously improving the quality of life for our residents.