Amritsar: Punjab Police on Thursday claimed to have dismantled a cross-border drug and illegal arms smuggling network with the arrest of two brothers in Amritsar. The operation led to the recovery of 5.5 kg of heroin, four pistols, and 10 live cartridges.
Details of the Operation
The arrests were made by the Counter Intelligence unit in Amritsar. The accused have been identified as Bobby Singh and Harjit Singh, both residents of Rokhe village in Ajnala. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav confirmed the development, stating that the operation was based on specific intelligence inputs.
According to the DGP, preliminary investigations revealed that the accused were in direct contact with a Pakistan-based smuggler. They had received consignments of arms and ammunition intended for distribution across Punjab. Initial investigations indicate that the accused were acting as conduits in a larger cross-border network engaged in smuggling narcotics and illegal weapons into Punjab, the DGP added.
How the Arrests Were Made
Acting on a tip-off, counter intelligence officials learned that the two suspects had recently received a consignment of arms and ammunition and were en route to deliver it near Kale Ghanupur village on the Amritsar bypass highway. A team was deployed, leading to their apprehension.
- Recovered items: 5.5 kg heroin, four pistols, and 10 live cartridges.
- Accused: Bobby Singh and Harjit Singh, residents of Rokhe village, Ajnala.
- Charge: Case registered under the Arms Act; additional provisions under the NDPS Act are likely to be added during the investigation.
Broader Implications
The arrests highlight the ongoing efforts by Punjab Police to curb cross-border smuggling activities. The DGP emphasized that the module had links to a Pakistan-based smuggler, and further investigations are underway to identify other members of the network. This operation is a significant step in disrupting the supply chain of narcotics and illegal weapons in the state, a police spokesperson said.
