Punjab Police and BSF Dismantle Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Network
In a significant joint operation, the Punjab Police, in collaboration with the Border Security Force (BSF), has successfully busted a cross-border drug smuggling module. The operation led to the arrest of three individuals and the recovery of a substantial 24.5 kilograms of heroin, along with Rs 21.5 lakh in cash, as confirmed by top police officials on Sunday.
Details of the Arrests and Seizures
The accused have been identified as Jagjit Singh alias Rana, a resident of village Noorwal in Amritsar, Manpreet Singh alias Preet from Aulakh Khurd in Amritsar, and Roshan Singh from village Dhupsari in Amritsar. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the accused maintained direct links with Pakistan-based handlers, who orchestrated the smuggling activities from across the border.
During the operation, authorities also seized a multi-copter drone, which was utilized by the Pakistan-based smugglers to deliver the narcotics consignment. Additionally, two cars used for transporting the drugs were confiscated. Punjab Director-General of Police Gaurav Yadav emphasized that this seizure marks a critical blow to a Pakistan-linked cross-border network, following an in-depth technical investigation.
Operation Conducted in Two Phases
Superintendent of Police from the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), Gurpreet Singh, provided further insights into the operation. He explained that the crackdown was executed in two distinct stages. Initially, 12.1 kg of heroin was recovered alongside the multi-copter drone. Forensic analysis of the drone's technical data subsequently led to a second seizure of 12.4 kg of heroin from the residence of Manpreet Singh, culminating in a total recovery of 24.5 kg of the illicit substance.
The officer also disclosed that accused Rana had recently acquired properties in upscale neighborhoods using proceeds from the drug trade and had a notable affinity for luxury cars. This highlights the financial motivations behind the smuggling operations.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Actions
Further investigation is currently underway to establish both forward and backward linkages in this case, with expectations of more arrests and recoveries. A formal case has been registered under relevant sections of the NDPS Act and the Aircraft Act at the ANTF police station in SAS Nagar, underscoring the seriousness of the offenses.
This operation underscores the persistent efforts of Indian security forces to combat cross-border narcotics trafficking and dismantle international smuggling networks that threaten public safety and national security.
