Amritsar (Gurpreet Singh): In a major operation signaling a decisive blow to trans-border crime, the Amritsar Rural Police, working in close coordination with central intelligence agencies, have successfully unearthed a sophisticated arms and drug money smuggling racket allegedly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
The crackdown has resulted in the arrest of five key individuals suspected of being part of a larger syndicate. Among the high-powered seizures were an AK Saiga .308 assault rifle with two magazines, two Glock 9mm pistols with four magazines, 90 rounds of AK ammunition, 10 live 9mm cartridges, Rs 7.50 lakh in drug money, a vehicle, and three mobile phones used in the operation.
Preliminary investigations have revealed disturbing details of a direct link between the arrested operatives and handlers based across the border in Pakistan. The consignment, intercepted before delivery, was reportedly destined for Nav alias Nav Pandori, a known associate of notorious gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, suggesting an alarming convergence of terrorism and organized criminal networks in the region.
Authorities say the operation is part of an intensified strategy to curb cross-border arms trafficking and dismantle emerging terror-gang alliances that threaten Punjab’s internal security.
“The Punjab Police is unwavering in its commitment to rooting out terror modules, disrupting organized crime, and preserving the safety, harmony, and well-being of our people,” said an official spokesperson.
The arrests mark a significant step forward in pre-empting potential acts of violence and curbing the influence of foreign-sponsored subversive activities in the state. Further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of the network and apprehend remaining operatives.
