Who are the three arrested for cross-border arms smuggling in Punjab?
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Synopsis
In a significant law enforcement operation in Chandigarh, authorities have arrested three men linked to a cross-border arms and hawala network. This crackdown reveals the growing threat posed by organized crime and international smuggling. Stay informed as we delve into the details of this intricate case and its implications for regional security.
Key Takeaways
- Significant arrests made in Punjab related to cross-border arms smuggling.
- Authorities recovered 2.02 kg of heroin and multiple firearms.
- The operation highlights the use of drones in smuggling activities.
- Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network.
- The case underscores the need for enhanced border security.
Chandigarh, Sep 4 (NationPress) The Amritsar Commissionerate Police has successfully apprehended three individuals as part of a synchronized operation, utilizing critical intelligence to dismantle a cross-border organized arms and hawala network, as announced by Punjab's Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav, on Thursday.
The suspects have been named as Harpreet Singh, 23, from Kot Mehtab village in Amritsar, Gurpal Singh, 21, from Sursingh village in Tarn Taran, and Ranjodh Singh, 33, from Viring village, also in Tarn Taran.
Authorities seized a total of 2.02 kg of heroin, four firearms including a Glock and three .30 bore pistols, along with Rs 3.5 lakh in hawala funds, and confiscated their motorcycle.
DGP Yadav reported that the group was utilizing drones to facilitate the smuggling of heroin and weapons from Pakistan, maintaining a significant presence in Punjab's border regions.
Initial investigations indicate that Harpreet Singh and Gurpal Singh, who had previously traveled to Malaysia, are connected to international smugglers, according to Yadav.
A case has been officially registered at the Gate Hakiman police station, with ongoing investigations aimed at uncovering the full extent of the smuggling network.
Providing insights into the operation, Commissioner of Police, Amritsar, Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, stated that Harpreet Singh and Gurpal Singh had previously been arrested with 220 grams of heroin and a motorcycle. Following their arrest, police recovered an additional 1.8 kg of heroin and two .30 bore pistols from a specified location.
Bhullar further revealed that Harpreet Singh traveled to Malaysia in 2023, returning after seven months, while Gurpal Singh went in 2022 and returned in 2023. Despite not knowing each other in Malaysia, they were in contact with a common smuggler based in Pakistan, from whom they received the illegal consignments.
On Gurpal Singh's disclosure, Ranjodh Singh was implicated and subsequently arrested with two pistols and Rs 3.5 lakh in drug money, intended for hawala routing to Pakistan, according to Bhullar.
Point of View
This incident underscores the pressing need for enhanced border security measures. With the rise of organized crime and international smuggling networks, it is crucial for authorities to collaborate effectively to mitigate these threats. The commitment to pursuing justice in this case reflects the dedication to safeguarding our communities and reinforcing the rule of law.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the police operation?
The police operation resulted in the arrest of three individuals linked to a cross-border arms smuggling network.
What items were seized during the police crackdown?
Authorities seized 2.02 kg of heroin, four pistols, and Rs 3.5 lakh in hawala money.
How were the suspects connected to international smuggling?
Preliminary investigations revealed that two of the suspects had previously traveled to Malaysia and were linked to cross-border smugglers.
What steps are being taken following the arrests?
A case has been registered, and further investigations are ongoing to expose the full network behind the smuggling operations.
What role did drones play in the smuggling operations?
The gang was reportedly using drones to facilitate the smuggling of heroin and weapons from Pakistan.
