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Jalandhar Police Crack Down on Cross-Border Drug Network, Seize 8kg Heroin in Major Operation
In a significant breakthrough against cross-border drug trafficking, the Jalandhar Commissionerate Police have recovered 8kg of heroin, making it the third major drug seizure in just five days. This comes after two earlier recoveries amounting to 18.5kg of heroin, as part of an intensified crackdown on narcotics operations in Punjab.
The latest recovery stems from an ongoing investigation involving Shivam Sodhi, a local resident who was earlier caught with 5.5kg of heroin and ₹22,000 in cash believed to be drug proceeds, on May 21. During a detailed interrogation, Shivam confessed to the possession of another 7kg heroin consignment, which was traced and seized by the police based on his directions.
Further developments in the case led to the arrest of his associate, Barinder Singh alias Babbu, who was found carrying 1kg of heroin. In addition to narcotics, the police confiscated two illegal .32 bore firearms, six live cartridges, and three luxury vehicles suspected to have been purchased using drug money.
Deepening Investigation Reveals Pakistan Links
Addressing the media, Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur Randhawa confirmed that both accused had direct connections with cross-border narcotics suppliers in Pakistan. “The duo has admitted that due to ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, their drug supply chains were disrupted. This prompted them to stockpile large quantities of heroin in advance,” said Randhawa.
The arrested individuals were reportedly active in the Doaba region, which includes Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Hoshiarpur, and Nawanshahr. Their arrest has severely impacted the operational capabilities of this cross-border network. “We have successfully dismantled a major supply route used for heroin smuggling into Punjab,” Randhawa stated.
Ongoing Raids and Legal Action Underway
Police officials are currently conducting raids in Amritsar and other border districts to trace further accomplices and supply routes. “We are working on forward linkages and trying to map the full network,” the Commissioner added.
Shivam Sodhi faces three cases under the NDPS Act and Arms Act, while Barinder Singh has been implicated in four separate cases, including one registered by the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF). Investigators noted that while Shivam had been in the trade for six months, Barinder had long-standing connections in the narcotics underworld, making him a significant catch.
Authorities have uncovered a web of illegal wealth amassed by the accused, including residential properties, luxury vehicles, and suspicious bank account activity. “We are initiating proceedings under Section 68F of the NDPS Act to seize or freeze assets acquired through illicit means,” said the commissioner.
A Broader Nexus Unfolds
In a separate but related operation on May 23, Jalandhar police apprehended two more smugglers and seized 5.5kg of heroin. One of the accused, Rinku Singh from Muhar Khewa, Fazilka, was allegedly managing his drug business from Faridkot Central Jail. This incident further highlights the deep-rooted and complex nature of narcotics operations in Punjab.
The multiple busts within a span of days underscore the growing challenge that the Punjab Police faces in curbing the cross-border heroin trade, which has been plaguing the region for years. With Pakistan-based suppliers using sophisticated networks and encrypted communication, authorities remain on high alert.
Community and Enforcement Response
Punjab has been grappling with a drug crisis for over a decade, with heroin being the most trafficked narcotic across the state. The State Narcotics Control Bureau, BSF, and local police forces have intensified efforts in recent years to control the influx of drugs, especially along the international border.
“The public should remain vigilant and report suspicious activity,” urged Commissioner Randhawa, adding that police are receiving increasing cooperation from the public and informants, which has played a vital role in recent successes.
The recent string of heroin seizures, arrests, and asset confiscations marks a significant achievement in Punjab’s ongoing battle against narcotics and cross-border smuggling. Authorities have vowed to continue the momentum and ensure those involved in drug trafficking are brought to justice.
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