How was an International Drug Cartel Busted? 60 kg Heroin Seized from Barmer
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a groundbreaking operation, authorities have dismantled an international drug cartel linked to Pakistan and Canada, leading to the seizure of over 60 kg of heroin in Barmer, Rajasthan. This significant bust has unveiled a complex network of smugglers operating across borders, with ongoing investigations revealing deeper connections into illicit drug trafficking.
Key Takeaways
- 60.302 kg of heroin seized near the International Border in Barmer.
- Operation led by Amritsar Commissionerate Police with BSF and Rajasthan Police support.
- Nine arrests made, including key figures in the drug trafficking network.
- Investigation reveals connections to international smuggling operations.
- Hawala network for drug money routing exposed.
Chandigarh, June 30 (NationPress) In a significant operation against drug trafficking, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police, alongside the Border Security Force (BSF) and Rajasthan Police, has dismantled a substantial international drug cartel orchestrated by Tanveer Shah, a smuggler based in Pakistan, and his Canadian counterpart Joban Kaler, as stated by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, on Monday.
A staggering total of 60.302 kg of heroin was seized near the International Border in Barmer, Rajasthan. This operation has resulted in the apprehension of at least nine individuals, which includes smugglers, traffickers, and hawala operators from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir, according to the DGP.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Gagandeep Singh (23), Jashanpreet Singh (20), Gursahib Singh (25), Rajeev Panjgotra (29), Somnath (62), Prashotam Singh (50), Kulwinder Singh (24), Rajinder Kaur (42), and one hawala operator.
DGP Yadav mentioned that initial investigations have indicated that the drug cartel was being run by Tanveer Shah from Pakistan and Joban Kaler from Canada, aided by local figure Gursahib Singh, who is currently incarcerated in Goindwal Sahib Jail. From prison, he was allegedly managing the operation. Jail authorities have confiscated his phone, and a production warrant has been secured to investigate the Canada-Pakistan connections, according to the DGP.
Expounding on the details, the Commissioner of Police (Amritsar), Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, stated that the operation commenced following Gursahib Singh's arrest last month when he was found in possession of one kg of heroin in Chheharta. Despite being jailed, Gursahib continued to operate through his nephew Jashanpreet Singh and associate Gagandeep Singh, who were apprehended with 102 gm of heroin. Their questioning led to the discovery of the massive 60 kg heroin shipment in Barmer.
During the investigation, the hawala network responsible for channeling drug money was also uncovered, resulting in the arrest of a hawala operator. The Commissioner of Police revealed that drugs were being trafficked from across the Indo-Pak border and routed through Rajasthan to Punjab, with further distribution networks. Ongoing investigations have identified five additional suspects linked to Tanveer Shah from Pakistan, and efforts are underway to apprehend them.
Point of View
This operation underscores the persistent challenges posed by international drug trafficking. The collaborative efforts among agencies reflect a commitment to combating this issue, reinforcing the need for ongoing vigilance and cooperation to secure our borders and communities.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized in the drug bust?
Authorities seized over 60 kg of heroin during the operation.
Who were the key figures in the drug cartel?
The cartel was operated by Pakistan-based smuggler Tanveer Shah and Canada-based handler Joban Kaler.
How many arrests were made in connection with this operation?
At least nine individuals have been arrested, including smugglers and hawala operators.
Where did the drug trafficking activities originate?
The drugs were smuggled across the Indo-Pak border and routed through Rajasthan to Punjab.
What role did Gursahib Singh play in the cartel?
Gursahib Singh, currently in jail, was identified as a local kingpin managing the cartel's operations.
