Amritsar (National Times): In a major success in the ongoing war against narco-terrorism, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police, in a joint operation with the Border Security Force (BSF) and Rajasthan Police, has busted a massive international drug cartel. Authorities recovered a staggering 60.302 kilograms of heroin near the International Border in Barmer, Rajasthan, marking one of the largest seizures in recent times.
According to officials, the cartel was being run by Pakistan-based smuggler Tanveer Shah in collaboration with Canada-based handler Joban Kaler, both of whom are believed to be the masterminds behind the trans-border heroin trafficking network.
As part of the extensive operation, nine key operatives and hawala handlers were arrested from various states including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir. The arrested individuals are said to be deeply entrenched in the logistics, distribution, and financial networks of the drug syndicate.
Police Commissioner of Amritsar, Dr. Sukhchain Singh Gill, stated that the operation was the result of weeks of surveillance, intelligence gathering, and coordinated efforts among multiple law enforcement agencies. “This seizure is not just about drugs; it is about breaking the backbone of narco-financed terrorism that seeks to destabilize Punjab and the country,” he said.
The heroin, which had been smuggled across the border using traditional desert routes, was found hidden in a series of plastic containers buried in an isolated stretch of land close to the fenced border. Forensic analysis and investigation are currently underway to determine the exact purity and market value of the narcotics.
A large amount of hawala transactions tied to the drug operations have also been unearthed, with investigators tracking the financial trail that extends internationally. Police said more arrests and leads are expected as the probe deepens.
The Punjab Police, under the leadership of Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, reiterated its unwavering commitment to dismantling international drug syndicates. “We will not allow Punjab to become a playground for international drug mafias. Our force is committed to protecting every corner of the state from the menace of narco-terror,” he said in an official statement.
This joint operation is being seen as a significant blow to the cross-border drug network and a major step toward restoring peace and safety in the border regions.
Investigations are ongoing, and further details are expected to be revealed in a press briefing later this week.
