Cross-border smuggling module busted; 3 held with 24 kg heroin, multi-copter drone in Punjab
The module was dismantled following a ‘technical investigation’, says DGP Gaurav Yadav
In a joint operation with the Border Security Force (BSF), the Punjab Police’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) busted a Pakistan-backed smuggling module and arrested three persons, a top police officer said.
The teams seized 24.5 kg heroin, Rs 21 lakh drug money, a multi-copter drone and two vehicles, including an SUV, during the operation.
The accused have been identified as Jagjit Singh, alias Rana, of Noorwal; Manpreet Singh, alias Preet, of Aulakh Khurd; and Roshan Singh of Dhupsari, all residents of Amritsar district. Director-General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said during preliminary investigations, the police found their direct links with Pakistan-based handlers.
“The module was dismantled following a ‘technical investigation’ while further probe is under way to establish forward and backward linkages,” said the DGP.
Superintendent of Police (SP), ANTF, Gurpreet Singh said the operation was conducted in two phases. Initially, 12.1 kg heroin and a drone were seized. Subsequent forensic analysis of the drone, including extraction of technical data, latitude-longitude coordinates and tower dump analysis, led to the seizure of additional 12.4 kg heroin from the residence of Manpreet Singh.
Investigations also revealed that Jagjit Rana had recently acquired properties in posh localities using proceeds of the drug trade, the SP added. Efforts would be made to confiscate such assets.
“A case has been registered under the NDPS Act and the Aircraft Act at the SAS Nagar ANTF police station. Further arrests and seizures are expected as the probe continues,” said Gurpreet Singh.
