In a significant breakthrough against organized crime with international links, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Jammu has apprehended a seventh individual connected to a major cross-border narcotics and weapons smuggling network. The arrest, made last week, led to the recovery of a sophisticated firearm, underscoring the syndicate's dangerous capabilities.
Seventh Suspect Nabbed, Arms Recovered
The latest individual taken into custody has been identified as Rohit Kumar, also known as Makhan, a resident of Raiyan Koltiyan in RS Pura. According to official statements released on Friday, his arrest was executed on January 3. Following leads obtained during his interrogation, the SIT conducted a raid on his residence on January 7.
This operation yielded a significant haul: officials confiscated one Px5 Storm Beretta pistol of .30 bore, a magazine, and three live rounds of ammunition. The recovery of this specific model of pistol points to the high-grade weaponry being circulated by the syndicate.
Deepening Probe into a Major Racket
This arrest is a direct extension of a major bust that occurred earlier. The case originated on December 5, 2025, when Jammu Police first dismantled this extensive racket. In that initial action, six accused persons were arrested.
The seizure at the time was staggering: approximately 5 kilograms of heroin, with an estimated street value of Rs 30 crore, along with three pistols. A formal case was registered at the Gandhi Nagar Police Station under the stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Establishing Cross-Border and Interstate Links
Police officials stated that the accused, Rohit Kumar, is currently in police remand and undergoing intensive interrogation. The focus of the questioning is to establish his precise role within the syndicate, uncover backward and forward linkages, and map the routes used for arms supply.
"Efforts are actively underway to identify and apprehend the remaining associates, trace the financial and logistical channels, and establish the complete network of cross-border and interstate linkages," a senior official involved in the investigation confirmed.
Total Haul and Network Composition
With this seventh arrest, the total crackdown on this single syndicate has led to the apprehension of a diverse group of individuals. Those arrested so far include alleged drug peddlers, financial handlers, and even facilitators operating from within jails, indicating a deeply entrenched network.
The cumulative seizures from this ongoing investigation are now substantial:
- Nearly 5 kg of heroin worth crores.
- A total of four pistols (including the recently seized Beretta).
- Multiple rounds of live ammunition.
- One modified vehicle used in the operations.
Authorities have emphasized that the evidence collected clearly reveals connections that extend across international borders, highlighting the challenging and coordinated nature of the threat posed by such syndicates to national security and public safety in the Jammu region.
