The Counter Intelligence (CI) wing of the Punjab Police has dismantled a significant cross-border drug smuggling operation in Amritsar, leading to the arrest of one individual and the seizure of 20 kilograms of heroin. The operation targeted a network allegedly operating under the direction of a foreign-based handler and linked to Pakistan-backed smugglers.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the arrested operative, identified as Om Sharma, a resident of Jhabal in the Tarn Taran district, was allegedly instrumental in retrieving heroin consignments dropped by drones in border areas. Police also impounded a car, bearing registration number PB46AJ6021, which is believed to have been used in the transportation of the narcotics.
Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav confirmed the successful operation, stating that preliminary investigations suggest Sharma’s primary role involved receiving the drug shipments, often delivered via drones from Pakistan into the Ajnala border belt. These consignments were then intended for distribution to traffickers operating within Punjab.
Acting on specific intelligence received by the CI, Amritsar, law enforcement officials intercepted Sharma near the Sohian Kalan grain market on the Fatehgarh Churian road. The recovery of 20 kg of heroin occurred before Sharma could deliver the substantial consignment to another operative, marking a critical interception by the police.
The Punjab Police are now engaged in a comprehensive investigation to uncover the full extent of the smuggling network. Efforts are underway to trace both the forward and backward linkages of the operation, with the aim of identifying other syndicate members and establishing potential connections to other drug smuggling modules operating within the region.
A case has been formally registered at the State Special Operation Cell Police Station in Amritsar under Sections 21, 25, and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities determined to dismantle the entire supply chain and apprehend all individuals involved in the cross-border drug trade.
The seizure of such a large quantity of heroin underscores the persistent challenge posed by cross-border militancy and drug trafficking networks that seek to destabilize the region. The police have reiterated their commitment to combating these threats and ensuring the safety and security of the state.
This bust is part of a broader intensified effort by Punjab Police to curb the flow of drugs into the state, which often serve as a funding mechanism for anti-India activities. The authorities have been actively working to disrupt supply lines, intercepting large quantities of contraband and arresting numerous individuals involved in various capacities of the drug trade.
The involvement of foreign-based handlers and the use of drones highlight the evolving tactics employed by smuggling syndicates. These methods pose significant challenges to law enforcement agencies, requiring continuous adaptation of surveillance and interdiction strategies. The success in Amritsar demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency coordination.
The confiscated vehicle will undergo forensic examination to identify any further evidence related to the smuggling activities. Police are also examining Sharma’s financial records and communication devices to map out his network and contacts. The investigation is expected to provide crucial insights into the operational mechanisms of these drug smuggling rings.
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and other central agencies are likely to be briefed on the developments, given the interstate and international dimensions of the case. Collaborative efforts are essential to tackle the complex web of drug trafficking and militancy that affects border states.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
