Busts major narco-terror network in Punjab; AK-47, heroin, cash and vehicles seized
Jammu Tawi, Jun 17: Jammu and Kashmir Police have dismantled nearly 80 per cent of the narcotics supply chain operating in the Union Territory and exposed a narco-terror network with links extending to Punjab and across the border, a senior police officer said on Wednesday.
Addressing a press conference, Jammu Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Joginder Singh said the breakthrough came after months of sustained investigation into drug trafficking networks operating in Jammu and adjoining districts. The operation led to the arrest of around 20 accused, including three key suppliers from Amritsar — Surajdeep Singh alias Suraj, Harpreet Singh alias Raju and Jaspreet.
The SSP said the trio was responsible for supplying the bulk of narcotics reaching Jammu and neighbouring districts and were linked to the network of Gulzar Ahmad alias “Lau Gujjar”, who was arrested in April and later booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Police recovered a large quantity of narcotics, cash, arms and ammunition from the accused during raids conducted in Punjab. Among the seized weapons were an AK-47 rifle, an AK-56 rifle, a pistol and ammunition, indicating a strong nexus between drug trafficking and terror-related activities.
Singh said investigations revealed that only a handful of individuals operating under multiple identities and phone numbers controlled most of the narcotics supply to Jammu. The operation was carried out with active support from Punjab Police, whose cooperation proved crucial in identifying and arresting the accused.
According to police, narcotics were smuggled across the border and received by handlers in Punjab before being transported to Jammu through local suppliers and couriers. The investigation traced both backward and forward linkages, exposing the entire supply chain.
Highlighting the ongoing anti-drug campaign, the SSP said the action forms part of the 100-day “Nasha Mukht Abhiyan” launched under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. He said Jammu Police have intensified efforts to curb both the supply and demand of narcotics.
In the last 65 days alone, police have registered around 280 cases under the NDPS Act, including nearly 140 cases against drug consumers and small-time peddlers. Besides awareness programmes, police have adopted a stricter approach against drug abuse and trafficking.
Appealing for public cooperation, Singh urged citizens to remain vigilant and share information related to narcotics and suspicious activities. He said community support remains vital in making Jammu drug-free and preventing youth from falling prey to drug addiction and criminal networks.
