Punjab Police and BSF Dismantle Major Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Network
In a significant joint operation, the Punjab Police's Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and the Border Security Force (BSF) have successfully busted a Pakistan-backed cross-border drug smuggling module. The operation resulted in the arrest of three alleged masterminds and the seizure of a substantial 24.5 kilograms of heroin along with drug money amounting to Rs 21 lakh, as confirmed by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Sunday.
Details of the Arrests and Seizures
The arrested individuals have been identified as Jagjit Singh alias Rana from Noorwal village, Manpreet Singh alias Preet from Aulakh Khurd, and Roshan Singh from Dhupsari, all residents of Amritsar district. In addition to the heroin and cash, authorities impounded a multi-copter drone used by Pakistan-based smugglers to deliver consignments across the border, as well as two vehicles, including a Mahindra Thar, which were utilized for transporting the narcotics.
DGP Yadav emphasized that preliminary investigations have uncovered direct links between the arrested accused and handlers based in Pakistan. Through a thorough technical probe, police teams managed to dismantle this extensive cross-border network, highlighting the sophisticated nature of the smuggling operation.
Operation Conducted in Two Phases
ANTF Superintendent of Police Gurpreet Singh detailed that the operation was executed in two strategic stages. Initially, 12.1 kg of heroin along with the multi-copter drone was recovered. Forensic analysis of the drone, which included examining its technical data, latitude-longitude inputs, and tower dump analysis, led to a subsequent seizure of 12.4 kg of heroin from the residence of Manpreet Singh, bringing the total recovery to 24.5 kg.
SP Singh further revealed that Jagjit Singh Rana had recently acquired properties in upscale areas using proceeds from drug trafficking and had a notable preference for high-end vehicles, indicating the lucrative nature of the illicit trade.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Actions
Police officials have indicated that further arrests and recoveries are anticipated as the investigation progresses. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Aircraft Act at the ANTF police station in Mohali. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Indian security forces to combat cross-border narcotics smuggling and disrupt networks with international connections.
