In a significant counter-narcotics operation, Punjab Police have intercepted a drone carrying a massive consignment of heroin near the India-Pakistan border in Fazilka district. The seizure, valued at approximately ₹40 crore in the international market, represents another attempt by smugglers to use aerial routes for drug trafficking.
Major Interception at International Border
Acting on specific intelligence, a joint team of Punjab Police and Border Security Force personnel conducted surveillance in the border area of Fazilka. The operation culminated on Monday when authorities spotted and intercepted a drone originating from the Pakistani side carrying the illicit substance.
The seized consignment weighed approximately 8 kilograms and was packed in a sophisticated manner designed for aerial transport. The narcotics, identified as high-grade heroin, were destined for distribution networks within India before law enforcement agencies successfully intercepted the shipment.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
Following the interception, police launched a manhunt that led to the arrest of two individuals connected to the smuggling operation. The suspects have been identified as residents of border areas who allegedly facilitated the landing and retrieval of the drone-delivered contraband.
Investigators revealed that the drone had crossed over from Pakistan and was attempting to drop the heroin in Indian territory when alert security forces detected and seized the consignment. The sophisticated operation highlights the evolving methods employed by drug syndicates operating across the border.
Continuing Battle Against Cross-Border Drug Smuggling
This incident marks the latest in a series of drone-based smuggling attempts intercepted by Indian security forces along the Pakistan border. The use of drones has become an increasingly common method for transporting narcotics, weapons, and other contraband across international boundaries.
Punjab Police officials emphasized their commitment to strengthening border surveillance and anti-drug operations. The successful interception demonstrates improved coordination between various security agencies in combating transnational drug trafficking networks.
Authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and are conducting further investigations to uncover the entire network behind this smuggling attempt. Police are also working to identify other individuals involved in the operation and trace the distribution channels that would have received the heroin.
