Punjab Police seize 105 kg of heroin and firearms in major cross-border drug bust

Punjab Police has made a significant impact in the fight against drug trafficking by dismantling a cross-border smuggling operation, seizing 105 kilograms of heroin during an intelligence-led raid in Amritsar. This operation was executed by the Counter Intelligence team of Punjab Police, focusing on a suspected drug trafficking network operating out of the Baba Bakala area. The two arrested individuals, Navjot Singh and Lovepreet Kumar, are believed to be key operatives within this network.

Investigations reveal that the heroin shipment originated from Pakistan and was transported using waterways, a method frequently exploited by traffickers to smuggle drugs across borders. During the operation, officers uncovered large rubber tubes, suggesting that these were used to conceal the narcotics during transit. Alongside the heroin, authorities also seized 31.93 kilograms of caffeine, which is often mixed with heroin to increase profitability, and 17 kilograms of DMR (Dimethylurea), a chemical precursor commonly utilized in the production of various narcotics. Additionally, the police recovered five foreign-made pistols and one locally manufactured firearm, indicating the potential for armed violence associated with drug trafficking operations.

Punjab Police Director General Gaurav Yadav confirmed the details of this significant operation via an official post on social media, highlighting that this seizure marks one of the largest in Punjab's anti-drug efforts to date. The estimated international market value of the confiscated drugs exceeds ₹500 crores, underscoring the operation's significance in disrupting a major narcotics pipeline.

Following the seizure, an FIR has been registered at the Amritsar State Special Operation Unit, and further investigations are ongoing to uncover additional connections within the smuggling network. Authorities are particularly focused on tracing links to Navpreet Singh, also known as Bhullar, a foreign-based drug smuggler who is believed to be managing the trafficking operation from abroad. Law enforcement agencies are examining financial records, communications, and other evidence to establish a clearer picture of the network's structure and operations.

This operation is part of a broader strategy by Punjab Police to combat the escalating drug crisis in the region, which has seen a surge in drug abuse and related crimes in recent years. The state has been a focal point for drug trafficking due to its geographical proximity to Pakistan, where many narcotics are produced. Law enforcement officials are increasingly utilizing intelligence-led strategies and cross-border cooperation to tackle these complex trafficking networks effectively.