In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Ludhiana police have apprehended nine individuals, including three women, and seized a substantial quantity of drugs along with an illegal weapon. The operation, which underscores the ongoing efforts to combat the drug menace in the region, was carried out by teams from the Division Number 5 police station.
Details of the Arrests and Seizures
The police action led to the arrest of a total of nine accused persons. Among those taken into custody were three women, identified as Manpreet Kaur, her mother Kulwant Kaur, and another woman named Poonam. The arrests were made based on specific intelligence inputs regarding drug peddling activities in the area.
During the raids, the police teams recovered a variety of illicit substances. The seized contraband included 52 grams of heroin, 40 grams of opium, and 10 intoxicant tablets. In a concerning discovery that points to the violent nature of such rackets, the police also confiscated one illegal .32-bore pistol along with two live cartridges from the possession of the accused.
Police Action and Cases Registered
The Ludhiana police have registered separate cases against all the arrested individuals under relevant sections of the law. The primary charges fall under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act for the possession and intended sale of banned drugs. Additionally, for the recovery of the firearm and ammunition, sections of the Arms Act have been invoked.
Senior police officials stated that the operation was part of a sustained drive to dismantle the supply chains of drugs in the industrial city. The involvement of multiple family members, as seen with Manpreet Kaur and her mother Kulwant Kaur, is being investigated to uncover deeper networks.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigations
This bust highlights the persistent challenge of drug abuse and illegal arms in Punjab. The seizure of a weapon alongside narcotics is particularly alarming, as it often indicates the use of force to protect illicit trade or settle disputes within the underworld. The Ludhiana police have emphasized that interrogations are ongoing to determine the source of the drugs and the pistol, as well as to identify other potential links in the chain.
Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information related to drug peddling or illegal weapons, assuring confidentiality. Community cooperation is seen as vital in the fight against such crimes that threaten social fabric and youth.
The arrested accused are currently in police remand, and further investigations are underway to expand the scope of the crackdown and bring all involved to justice.
