Daijiworld Media Network - Chandigarh

Chandigarh, Apr 11: Punjab police have uncovered a cross-border smuggling network involving drugs and illegal weapons, arresting three individuals, including a juvenile, and seizing a large quantity of contraband.

According to Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, the operation led to the recovery of 6.5 kg of heroin, a .30 calibre pistol with six cartridges, and Rs 1 lakh in suspected drug money. The police also impounded the vehicle used by the accused.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Nishan Singh from Batala, Ravipal Singh from Raipur, and a juvenile. The breakthrough came during the investigation of an earlier extortion-linked firing case in Batala on March 30, in which two suspects—Vansh and Sukhchain alias Jashan—had already been arrested with illegal firearms.

Officials said interrogation of the earlier accused revealed links to a broader network engaged in trafficking narcotics and supplying weapons. The probe indicated a strong connection between extortion activities, drug smuggling, and illegal arms circulation.

Deputy Inspector General Sandeep Goel stated that the accused were acting under instructions from a foreign-based handler, pointing to an international dimension of the racket.

Senior Superintendent of Police (Batala) Mehtab Singh said that disclosures by the arrested suspects led police to Ravipal Singh and his juvenile accomplice, who admitted their role in coordinating the smuggling operations.

Further investigation revealed that Ravipal had delivered a consignment to Nishan Singh on directions from the overseas handler. Acting on this information, police intercepted Nishan Singh near Amritsar and recovered the heroin, weapon, and cash from his possession.

Authorities said further investigations are underway to dismantle the entire network and trace other individuals involved in the cross-border operation.