Amritsar Police Dismantles Cross-Border Illegal Arms Smuggling Network
In a significant crackdown on organized crime, the Amritsar Police Commissionerate announced on Thursday the successful busting of a cross-border illegal arms smuggling module. This operation led to the arrest of six accused individuals, including a juvenile, and the recovery of seven sophisticated pistols. Among the seized weapons were five Glock 9mm firearms and two .30 bore weapons, highlighting the serious threat posed by this illicit network.
International Links and Smuggling Route Uncovered
Commissioner of Police Gurpreet Singh Bhullar revealed that preliminary investigations have exposed a disturbing international connection. The accused were found to be in contact with a foreign-based handler operating from Portugal, who played a crucial role in facilitating the smuggling of illegal arms from Pakistan into India. These weapons were then supplied to criminal elements within the region, fueling violence and lawlessness.
A formal case has been registered at Police Station Cantonment in Amritsar, and authorities are intensifying their efforts to uncover further details. The investigation remains active, with police working to trace the full extent of this smuggling operation and identify any additional accomplices.
Massive Cordon and Search Operation Underway
Simultaneously, the Amritsar Police Commissionerate launched a large-scale cordon and search operation (CASO) across all three zones of the city on Thursday. This coordinated effort was supervised by the respective deputy commissioners of police (DCPs) and involved a substantial deployment of personnel and resources.
Key elements of the operation include:
- Deployment of three additional deputy commissioners of police (ADCPs), five assistant commissioners of police (ACPs), and five station house officers (SHOs).
- Involvement of NGOs/ORs and specialized teams such as Quick Response Teams (QRT), Anti-Riot Police (ARP), Special Operations Group (SOG), and SWAT units.
- A total strength of 385 personnel dedicated to ensuring thorough checks and surveillance.
The CASO is currently focused on six identified locations: Anngarh, Gujjarpura, Gumtala, Mustafabad, Maqboolpura (Gali No. 2 to 12), and Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Flats. During the operation, authorities are conducting rigorous checks, verifying the activities of suspicious persons, and closely monitoring individuals currently out on bail to prevent any potential criminal resurgence.
This dual-pronged approach—combining arrests in the smuggling case with an extensive search operation—demonstrates the Amritsar Police's commitment to curbing illegal activities and enhancing public safety in the region. The ongoing efforts underscore the seriousness with which law enforcement is tackling cross-border crime and its local ramifications.
