Did NIA Charge Sheet Eight Accused in LeT Linked Narco-Terror Case?
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Synopsis
The NIA has filed charges against eight individuals involved in a narco-terror case linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba. As details unfold, the extent of international connections and the scale of the operation raise critical questions about national security.
Key Takeaways
- NIA charges eight accused in a significant narco-terror case.
- Connection with Lashkar-e-Taiba raises security concerns.
- International links highlight the global nature of the crime.
- 26 arrests made, with ongoing efforts to capture absconders.
- Investigation reveals a complex network spanning multiple countries.
New Delhi, Oct 7 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed charges against eight individuals in connection with the 2020 transnational narco-terror network case, which involves the smuggling of drugs from Pakistan into India via the sea route through Gujarat, the agency announced on Tuesday.
The smuggled drugs were intended to finance the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror organization.
The supplementary chargesheet, labeled Salaya drugs case RC-26/2020/NIA/DLI, details the narco-terror conspiracy orchestrated by Simranjit Singh Sandhu, who operates from Italy, Tanveer Bedi from Australia, and Ankush Kapoor based in India.
According to the agency's press release, “The charges have been filed under multiple provisions of the NDPS Act and UA (P) Act before the NIA Special Court in Ahmedabad, supported by extensive digital, technical, and documentary evidence.”
In addition to Simranjit Singh, Tanveer Bedi, and Ankush Kapoor, the accused list includes Pakistani national Tariq alias Bhaijaan, Gagandeep Singh Arora, and three others: Tamanna Gupta, Sukhbir Singh alias Happy, and Anwar Masih.
This case centers around the smuggling of 500 kilograms of heroin from Pakistan into Gujarat via the sea route, followed by transportation to Punjab.
The proceeds from the drug sales were diverted to fund the activities of the LeT, a designated terrorist group.
The NIA’s investigations exposed that the narco-terror conspiracy spanned several Indian states such as Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab, and Chandigarh, with connections to multiple countries including Italy, Australia, UAE, Pakistan, Iran, and Thailand.
As per the investigation, Ankush Kapoor was a principal figure in India, responsible for overseeing the operational activities of the narco-terror syndicate in Punjab.
“He managed logistics, storage, and local distribution of the contraband, and played an active role in facilitating funding to accused individuals based both domestically and internationally. Simranjit orchestrated the illegal transportation, storage, and processing of these drugs and the subsequent terror funding,” the statement noted.
The investigation also highlighted Tariq alias Bhaijaan's crucial role in managing the heroin smuggling from Pakistan to India, supervising its transportation and distribution in Punjab, and directing the proceeds to finance LeT operatives.
Tanveer Bedi, the wanted individual based in Australia, was actively engaged in both the smuggling and the transfer of drug proceeds through international hawala networks to support LeT's operations in India.
“Other accused, including Tamanna, Sukhbir Singh, and Anwar Masih, have been charged for their intentional involvement in the terror funding conspiracy,” the agency stated.
Furthermore, Gagandeep Singh Arora, a hawala operator who is currently on the run, has been charged for his role in facilitating significant money laundering and transferring illegal funds to terror operatives.
The ATS Gujarat initially filed the original charge sheet, with the NIA contributing seven supplementary charge sheets previously.
In total, 26 individuals have been apprehended in this case, while eight remain at large.
The NIA is actively pursuing investigations to locate the absconders and dismantle the syndicate, as part of their efforts to sever the connection between narcotics trafficking and terrorism.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the seriousness of the NIA's findings. The nexus between narcotics and terrorism poses an ongoing threat to national security. The extensive international connections highlighted in this case underscore the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies across borders.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NIA charge sheet about?
The NIA charge sheet addresses the involvement of eight accused individuals in a narco-terror case linked to the smuggling of drugs from Pakistan to India.
Who are the main accused in the case?
The key accused include Simranjit Singh Sandhu, Tanveer Bedi, and Ankush Kapoor, along with several others.
What was the purpose of the drug smuggling?
The drugs were intended to finance the activities of the terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
How many people have been arrested so far?
A total of 26 individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, while eight remain at large.
What steps is the NIA taking next?
The NIA continues its investigation to locate the absconders and dismantle the narco-terror syndicate.
