Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Chandigarh, Sep 28: In a major breakthrough in the fight against narcotics, Counter Intelligence (CI) Amritsar has dismantled a cross-border drug smuggling module linked to Pakistan with the arrest of two key operatives and seizure of 4 kg of heroin, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav announced on Sunday.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Akashdeep Singh, alias Tony, a resident of Attari, and Pawanbir Singh, from Basarke Bhaini, both in Amritsar district. Police also impounded the Hero Splendor motorcycle used by the duo to transport drug consignments.

Initial investigations revealed that the operatives were acting under the instructions of a Pakistan-based smuggler identified as Rana King, who has been deploying drones to airdrop narcotics into Indian territory.

Acting on a specific tip-off regarding a heroin pickup from the border zone, CI Amritsar laid a trap and intercepted the suspects on Chheharta–Sann Sahib Road, near Mannu Hospital, as they were en route to deliver the consignment.

DGP Yadav said the police are actively pursuing further leads and more arrests and recoveries are expected as the investigation unfolds. Efforts are underway to expose the full network involved in this cross-border operation.

This operation is part of Punjab Police’s intensified anti-drug campaign “Yudh Nashian Virudh” (War Against Drugs). On Saturday alone, police conducted raids at 332 locations across the state, leading to the arrest of 66 drug smugglers and the registration of 53 FIRs.

So far, in 210 days, a staggering 31,145 drug smugglers have been arrested, reflecting the scale and seriousness of the crackdown. The raids have led to the recovery of 431 grams of heroin, 1,608 intoxicant tablets and capsules, and Rs 42,250 in drug-related cash.

To further strengthen the state’s response, the Punjab government has formed a 5-member Cabinet Sub-Committee, headed by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, to oversee and monitor the progress of the anti-drug campaign.

Police say the offensive against drug trafficking will continue with full force, with special focus on dismantling networks with cross-border links and drone-based delivery systems.