Daijiworld Media Network - Chandigarh
Chandigarh, Mar 1: In a significant blow to cross-border drug trafficking, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police has arrested two individuals involved in smuggling and seized a large consignment of 4 kg heroin. The operation was confirmed by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Saturday.
The suspects, identified as Karanpal Singh (37) and Ranjit Singh (36), both from border villages near Khem Karan in Tarn Taran district, were apprehended during a targeted operation. The police also impounded the motorcycle the two were using during their illegal activities.
According to DGP Yadav, initial investigations suggest that the drug consignment was smuggled across the border via drones, with a notorious Pakistan-based trafficker using the Ferozepur sector for this illicit trade. Further inquiries are underway to trace the full extent of the operation and to identify both the suppliers and buyers involved.
Commissioner of Police, Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, explained that a special police team, led by ADCP (Investigation) Navjot Singh, ACP (Detective) Harminder Singh, and ACP (Narcotics) Lalit Sharma, executed the operation based on credible intelligence. The team intercepted the smugglers on Jhabal Road in Amritsar and successfully recovered the heroin from their possession.
The arrested duo is accused of receiving drugs from across the border and distributing them to local peddlers for wider circulation in the state. Commissioner Bhullar emphasized that a thorough investigation is being conducted to uncover the full network behind the drug trade, including the suppliers, middlemen, and end-users.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, during a meeting on Friday, reiterated the government's commitment to eliminating the drug menace from the state within three months. He urged police officers, district officials, and the civil administration to work in unison to make Punjab drug-free. The Chief Minister also announced the establishment of special courts to expedite the trials of drug-related offenses and ensure swift justice.
Mann emphasized the need for proactive measures in schools and colleges to prevent youth from falling prey to drugs. He assured full support and resources for law enforcement and administration, urging them to dismantle the drug supply chain and punish those involved in the trade.