Kathua Police Crack Down on Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Network
In a significant breakthrough, Jammu and Kashmir Police have apprehended two individuals involved in a sophisticated cross-border drug peddling operation linked to a Pakistan-based drone-dropped narcotics module. The arrests occurred in Kathua district, where authorities seized approximately 150 grams of heroin from the suspects.
Operation Details and Arrests
Kathua Police registered a formal case and charged the duo under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The investigation was initiated after police received credible intelligence about a drone-dropping incident along the sensitive Jammu and Kashmir-Punjab border, specifically near the Nagri area of Kathua.
Utilizing advanced technical analysis and reviewing extensive CCTV footage, law enforcement officials first identified and arrested Jatin, a resident of Manwal in Pathankot. Following this initial arrest, further investigative efforts led to the capture of Danish Dogra, who hails from Jakhbar in Kathua district.
Modus Operandi and International Links
Preliminary investigations have uncovered that the accused were actively communicating with a Pakistan-based smuggler through Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls. The seized heroin consignment was allegedly intended for distribution to vulnerable youth in the region, with the peddlers aiming for substantial monetary profits from this illicit trade.
Police authorities have emphasized that this operation is part of a broader strategy to dismantle transnational drug smuggling networks that exploit technological advancements like drones for cross-border narcotics trafficking.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The investigation remains active as authorities work to unravel the complete smuggling network and identify all forward linkages associated with this module. Law enforcement officials have urged citizens to come forward with any relevant information and cooperate fully with authorities in the ongoing war against drugs.
This case highlights the evolving challenges in border security and the innovative methods employed by law enforcement to combat high-tech drug smuggling operations threatening regional stability.
