In a decisive move against narcotics networks, the Ludhiana Rural police have seized and frozen properties valued at over Rs 1.03 crore, allegedly purchased with illegal drug money. This action forms a critical part of the Punjab government's intensified campaign to dismantle the financial infrastructure of drug dealers.
Major Assets Frozen in Sidhwan Bet Operation
The crackdown was executed by officials from the Sidhwan Bet police station. The police have identified several key individuals whose assets have been attached under the stringent provisions of the law. The frozen properties cannot be sold, transferred, or disposed of in any manner, effectively crippling the economic power of the accused.
Prime Accused and Their Attached Properties
One of the main targets is alleged drug smuggler Pritam Singh of Salempur Tibba. Singh faces multiple cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in the years 2019, 2021, and 2024. The police have frozen three houses linked to him, with a combined estimated value of approximately Rs 76.20 lakh.
In a separate but connected case, property worth Rs 31.20 lakh belonging to Raj Kaur of Hujra village has been attached. This action follows the recovery of a substantial 52 kg of poppy husk. Another accused, Gagandeep Singh of Baghian village, has also seen his assets, valued at around Rs 17 lakh, frozen by the authorities.
A Stern Warning and Continued Fight
This high-value property freeze sends a powerful message that crime will not pay. The police have emphasized that the anti-drug drive is ongoing and will continue to target the proceeds of narcotics trafficking. By attacking the financial gains, authorities aim to strike at the very heart of the drug trade's incentive structure.
The Ludhiana Rural police's action underscores the state government's commitment to uprooting the drug menace. This strategy of asset forfeiture is designed to inflict long-term damage on trafficking syndicates, making it increasingly difficult for them to operate and reinvest their illicit profits.
