J&K Police Smash Narco-Terror Syndicate with Pakistan Links
Jammu and Kashmir Police have successfully dismantled a cross-border narco-terror syndicate, arresting six individuals and seizing a significant quantity of heroin, arms, and ammunition. The operation uncovered connections to Pakistani handlers who were allegedly fueling anti-India activities.
Key Highlights of the Operation:
- Six suspects arrested in connection with a cross-border narco-terror syndicate.
- 5 kg of heroin seized, estimated to be worth over Rs 30 crore in the international market.
- Arms and ammunition recovered, including three pistols and six live rounds.
- Links to Pakistani handlers uncovered, suggesting a cross-border operation.
Details of the Investigation
South Jammu SP Ajay Sharma announced the successful operation at a press conference, highlighting the arrests as a major achievement for the police force. He emphasized that digital evidence linked the accused to Pakistani handlers involved in supplying narcotics and other drugs to support anti-India activities.
A case has been registered at Gandhi Nagar Police Station under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), with additional charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Timeline of Events:
- November 14: A police patrol team noticed two suspicious pedestrians carrying bags near Shastri Nagar Shamshan Ghat.
- The suspects attempted to flee but were apprehended after a brief chase.
- A search of their bags revealed over 3 kg of heroin.
- Arrests: Karan Sharma of Jourian, Akhnoor, and Niklesh Verma of Dhar Road, Udhampur, were arrested.
- November 19: Based on Karan Sharma's information, police recovered 278g of heroin concealed in his shop at Preet Nagar, Jammu.
Further Arrests and Discoveries
The investigation continued, leading to further arrests and discoveries:
- Mohd Yousaf alias Shamma: Arrested from Narwal Bala, Jammu. He was found in possession of over 53g of heroin and identified as a main drug peddler in the racket.
- Gulshan Kumar: Arrested from Lamberi, Rajouri, for handling the financial channels of the syndicate. Over 259g of heroin was recovered from his vehicle, which was specially modified for drug transportation and subsequently impounded.
- Jaswinder Kumar alias Sonu: Already in Rajouri district jail for another drug case, he was found to be operating from behind bars, acting as a mediator between interstate and cross-border suppliers via WhatsApp.
- Shamp Din alias Pappy: Arrested based on technical evidence and statements. A native of Kathua and accused in a 2023 murder case, he had been evading police. Two pistols and three rounds were seized from his house.
International Links and Ongoing Investigation
SP Sharma stated that all six accused were interconnected and part of an organised narco-terror network with international links, including Pakistan-based suppliers identified as Gill and Shah, believed to be the primary sources of narcotics and arms.
โFurther probe is underway to trace the remaining members of the network, identify financial channels, and establish cross-border supply routes,โ the SP added.
