Kulgam Police have apprehended three individuals, including a couple, during naka checking on National Highway 44 near the North Portal of the Navyug Tunnel. The operation resulted in the recovery of approximately seven grams of a heroin-like contraband substance.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the police team, stationed at a checkpoint on November 5, 2026, intercepted a vehicle traveling from Jammu towards Srinagar. The vehicle, registered under PB-01-B-2046, was searched, leading to the discovery of the illicit substance.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Mehreen, also known as Anna Aaqib Ganai, wife of Aaqib Shafi Ganai, and Aaqib Shafi Ganai himself, both residents of Panthachowk, Srinagar. The third person apprehended is Zubair Ahmed Sofi, son of Mohd. Rafiq Sofi, also from Buchpora, Srinagar. Mehreen is reportedly seven months pregnant.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Aaqib Shafi Ganai has prior involvement in two cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Following the recovery and arrests, Kulgam Police registered an FIR, No. 271/2026, under Sections 8/21/29 of the NDPS Act at the concerned police station. Further investigation into the matter has commenced.
Authorities are currently working to determine the origin of the recovered contraband, its intended destination, and to establish any potential connections within the broader drug trafficking network. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover all facets of the operation.
Kulgam Police have reiterated their commitment to an ongoing campaign against drug trafficking in the region. Officials stated that stringent action will be taken against all individuals involved in the illicit drug trade. The public has been urged to cooperate with the police by sharing information regarding drug-related activities to contribute to efforts aimed at building a drug-free society.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
