Amritsar: In a major breakthrough against transnational drug trafficking, the Amritsar Rural Police, acting on specific intelligence, have busted a cross-border narco-smuggling operation. The crackdown led to the arrest of one key operative and the recovery of a significant quantity of heroin and illicit cash.
The arrested individual has been identified as Shankar Singh, a resident of Guru Ki Wadali in Amritsar. During the operation, police seized 6.286 kilograms of heroin along with ₹4 lakh in drug proceeds from his possession.
According to police officials, preliminary interrogation has revealed that the accused was in direct contact with drug suppliers based abroad, pointing to a well-organized international smuggling ring operating through Punjab’s border areas.
FIR Registered, Investigation Expands
A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered at Police Station Lopoke, and further investigation is currently underway. Authorities are now focused on mapping the full extent of the network — both backward linkages (including foreign handlers and suppliers) and forward connections (potential buyers and distributors within India).
Senior police officials confirmed that multiple leads have emerged from the arrest, and further arrests may follow as the investigation progresses. Technical surveillance and financial tracking are being employed to trace the money trail and communication networks involved in the smuggling operation.
Zero Tolerance for Drug Trafficking
Terming the operation as a “significant success,” the Punjab Police reiterated its unwavering stance against drug trafficking. “This arrest and seizure underline our commitment to eradicating the drug menace from Punjab. Our teams will continue to pursue all leads and break the backbone of such networks,” said a senior police officer.
The heroin recovered in this case has an estimated international street value running into several crores, adding to concerns over the increasing use of Punjab’s borders for narcotic smuggling by global syndicates.
Authorities have also urged the public to come forward with information about suspicious activities, ensuring confidentiality for informants. The police are working closely with central agencies to uncover any cross-border angles and possible links to terror funding networks.
