Have Foreign-Based Drug Cartels Been Busted in Punjab? Three Arrested, 4 Kg of ICE Seized
Synopsis
In a significant blow to cross-border drug trafficking, Punjab police have arrested three operatives linked to foreign drug cartels, seizing over 4 kg of ICE and heroin. This successful operation reflects the ongoing commitment to combat drug abuse in the region, as outlined by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Key Takeaways
Punjab police dismantled a drug cartel linked to foreign handlers.
Three suspects apprehended during the operation.
Seizure of over 4 kg of ICE and heroin.
Use of WhatsApp for coordination among traffickers.
Commitment to a drug-free Punjab.
Chandigarh, Dec 10 (NationPress) In a significant multi-layered operation aimed at realizing a drug-free Punjab as directed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police have successfully dismantled a well-organized cross-border drug cartel associated with foreign handlers. This operation led to the apprehension of three individuals, as reported by Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, on Wednesday.
The police seized 4.083 kg of methamphetamine, commonly referred to as ICE, along with 1.032 kg of heroin from the suspects' possession.
The arrested individuals include Balwinder Singh alias Binder (25) from Daoke village in Amritsar, Navtej Singh (33) from Mahwa village in Amritsar but currently residing in Tarn Taran, and Mahabir Singh (32) from Kaaliya Sakataran village in Tarn Taran.
In addition to the drugs, police teams also confiscated Rs 2,500 in drug money and seized their vehicle and an Activa scooter.
DGP Yadav noted that initial investigations indicate the accused were in contact with smugglers in Pakistan and abroad, coordinating their activities via WhatsApp. Further inquiries are being conducted to trace the network's connections.
Detailing the operation, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar, Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, stated that suspect Balwinder Singh was apprehended with 35 gm of ICE, and during questioning, he disclosed his association with a trafficker based in Pakistan who communicated drop locations through WhatsApp.
Following this lead, police recovered an additional 2.042 kg of ICE, totaling 2.077 kg from Balwinder alone.
In a simultaneous operation, Navtej Singh was intercepted with 40 gm of ICE. Investigations revealed that he had previously worked in Doha, Qatar, where he connected with a handler whose operations transitioned to India via WhatsApp instructions.
Navtej reportedly functioned as a ground courier, collecting drug packets for further distribution. Based on his disclosures, police seized an extra 1.966 kg of ICE, making the total recovery from him 2.006 kg.
In another operation, police arrested Mahabir Singh with 1.032 kg of heroin.
Investigations indicated that he was receiving shipments from a smuggler in Pakistan utilizing drone drops, showcasing an advanced method of cross-border drug transportation. Three separate cases have been registered under relevant sections of the NDPS Act at different police stations.
Point of View
I emphasize that the relentless efforts of the Punjab police in combating drug trafficking are commendable. The crackdown on organized drug cartels highlights a serious issue that affects countless lives. Our commitment remains steadfast in supporting initiatives aimed at eradicating this menace from society.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What drugs were seized during the operation?
The operation resulted in the seizure of over 4 kg of methamphetamine, known as ICE, and 1.032 kg of heroin.
How many individuals were arrested?
Three individuals were arrested during this significant operation.
What methods were used for drug trafficking?
The traffickers were reportedly using WhatsApp for coordination and drone drops for transporting consignments across borders.
Who is leading the anti-drug campaign in Punjab?
The anti-drug campaign in Punjab is being led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
What is the police's next step following the arrests?
The police are conducting further investigations to trace the network's connections and gather more evidence.
