Did NCB Just Secure a 15-Year Sentence for a Drug Trafficker in Punjab?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Chandigarh, Feb 19 (NationPress) A Special Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Court in Fazilka, Punjab, has handed down a 15-year rigorous imprisonment sentence to a drug trafficker, along with a fine of Rs 4 lakh, for transporting three plastic bottles containing 4.235 kg of heroin hidden in his backpack over three years ago, as reported by an NCB official.
Arvind Saroye, who hails from Phillaur in Jalandhar, was apprehended on June 21, 2022, at Jodhawala in Fazilka, near the India-Pakistan border, according to a statement from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)'s Chandigarh Zonal Unit.
The sentencing order was issued by the Court of Additional District Judge-II (NDPS Act) on Wednesday, as per the NCB's announcement.
The case was initiated after reliable information was received from security agencies on June 20, 2022, prompting the NCB to quickly assemble a team and collaborate with the Border Security Force (BSF).
During the operation, Saroye was discovered with three plastic bottles filled with heroin concealed inside his backpack at Jodhawala in Fazilka.
"The search was conducted in the presence of independent witnesses, resulting in the recovery of 4.235 kg of heroin," the NCB stated.
In a related case, the NCB on Tuesday seized 4.776 kg of cocaine valued at Rs 23.88 crore (street value) from a Brazilian traveler at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bangalore. The statement indicated that the individual had traveled from Sao Paulo to Doha (Qatar), and then to Bengaluru.
"Upon inspecting his checked luggage, officers found four women's handbags that had been modified with false walls and concealed compartments. These concealed areas contained multiple pieces of clothing fabric chemically infused with cocaine," the statement elaborated.
The accused is currently in custody for comprehensive interrogation to uncover the source, destination, and broader conspiracy linked to this trafficking attempt, with necessary legal actions initiated under the NDPS Act.