In a significant blow to cross-border narcotics smuggling, the Punjab Police's Special Task Force (STF) has seized a large consignment of heroin and arrested one individual. The operation, which took place on Sunday, resulted in the recovery of 5 kilograms of the illicit drug.
Details of the Narcotics Bust
The seizure was made near the village of Naushera Dhalla, located within the jurisdiction of the Bhikhiwind police station in Tarn Taran district. Acting on specific intelligence regarding the movement of a drug consignment, a team from the STF's Amritsar unit laid a strategic checkpoint.
During the operation, the police team intercepted a suspicious vehicle. Upon searching the car, the officials discovered five packets containing the heroin. The estimated street value of the seized contraband runs into several crores of rupees, marking it as a major haul.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
The police have taken one person into custody in connection with the case. The arrested individual has been identified as Gurpreet Singh, a resident of Naushera Dhalla village. He was allegedly involved in the transportation and distribution network of the smuggled heroin.
Authorities believe the narcotics were smuggled into Indian territory from across the international border. The STF has registered a case under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at the Bhikhiwind police station. Investigations are actively ongoing to uncover the broader network, including the suppliers and other recipients linked to this smuggling racket.
Punjab's Continued Crackdown on Drugs
This seizure is part of the sustained and intensive efforts by the Punjab Police, particularly the STF, to combat the drug menace in the state. The border districts of Punjab, including Tarn Taran, are often used as conduits for narcotics entering from neighboring countries.
The successful operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-based policing. Senior police officials have reiterated their commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against drugs. They have also urged the public to continue providing credible information to help authorities choke the supply chains and apprehend all individuals involved in this illegal trade.
The arrest of Gurpreet Singh and the confiscation of such a large quantity of heroin is expected to disrupt a significant supply line, providing a major respite in the region's fight against drug addiction and trafficking.
