Major Blow to Cross-Border Narco-Terrorism: Punjab Police Busts Drone Smuggling Racket, Six Arrested

The Special Task Force (STF) of the Punjab Police has delivered a significant blow to cross-border drug trafficking, successfully dismantling a sophisticated narco-smuggling network operating from Pakistan. In a meticulously executed operation, six key individuals involved in the racket were apprehended, leading to the seizure of a substantial consignment of 10.15 kg of heroin, alongside two pistols, a drone, and two vehicles used in the illicit trade.

This breakthrough underscores the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the inflow of narcotics into the state.

The arrests were spearheaded by the STF, following intelligence-led investigations. Among those nabbed is Harpreet Singh alias Happy, a resident of Amritsar, identified as the primary handler of the sprawling network.

His accomplices, Simranjit Singh alias Simma, Pardeep Singh, Harjinder Singh alias Gola, Lakhwinder Singh alias Lakhi, and Gurdhian Singh – all hailing from Ferozepur – were also taken into custody. The sheer volume of the seized heroin, valued at millions in the international market, highlights the scale of their operations.

The interrogation of the arrested individuals has shed light on a chillingly modern modus operandi employed by the syndicate.

The network relied heavily on drones to ferry large quantities of heroin from across the border in Pakistan, leveraging technological advancements for their nefarious activities. Once the drone deliveries were made, the narcotics were then distributed through a meticulously organized ground network, reaching various parts of Punjab and beyond.

The recovery of a high-tech drone from the suspects confirms this innovative, yet dangerous, method of smuggling.

Investigations have further revealed the deep-rooted connections of the arrested module to previous major drug seizures. Specifically, their links to a significant 24 kg heroin consignment recovered in the past are being thoroughly probed.

Furthermore, the racket's ties extend to Pakistan-based handlers, identified as Shinda and Monty, who are believed to be orchestrating these cross-border operations from the other side. The STF is actively pursuing these leads to dismantle the entire chain of command.

An FIR has been duly registered against the accused under the stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Arms Act at the STF Mohali Police Station.

This comprehensive legal action aims to ensure that those involved face the full brunt of the law. This successful operation represents more than just a series of arrests and seizures; it marks a critical disruption to the supply chain of illicit drugs, protecting communities from the devastating impact of addiction and organized crime.

The Punjab Police remains committed to its mission of creating a drug-free state.