Has a Drug Cartel Linked to Turkey-Based Smuggler Been Busted in Punjab?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Punjab Police have apprehended three individuals linked to a Turkey-based drug smuggling cartel. With the recovery of heroin and substantial hawala funds, the operation reveals the extent of international narcotics trafficking in the region. Discover how the Punjab Police are tackling this pressing issue.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab Police apprehended three operatives tied to a Turkey-based drug cartel.
- Significant amounts of heroin and hawala money were recovered during the operation.
- The operation was conducted under the supervision of senior police officials.
- Investigations are ongoing to track further connections in the cartel.
- The operation demonstrates the police's commitment to combating drug trafficking.
Chandigarh, May 12 (NationPress) - In a significant operation against an international drug trafficking and hawala network, the Punjab Police have dismantled a cartel associated with Turkey-based smuggler Navpreet Singh. This was confirmed by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Monday, following the arrest of three individuals connected to the operation.
The detained suspects are identified as Gurdeep Singh (35), a taxi driver from Amritsar, Pardeep Sharma (29), a garment shop employee from Bikaner, and Mani Sharma (36), a garment businessman from Ludhiana. Law enforcement recovered 1.10 kg of heroin and ₹1.06 crore in hawala funds (comprising ₹84.02 lakh in cash and ₹22 lakh in bank accounts), along with a cash counting machine and a car lacking a number plate.
DGP Yadav stated that initial investigations indicate that Gurdeep was managing the local hawala and drug trafficking network under the guidance of his handler Nav Bhullar, who allegedly supplied him with a hideout in Amritsar along with logistical support. Bhullar is currently a wanted suspect in several major drug and hawala cases.
The DGP added that inquiries are ongoing to uncover both the backward and forward linkages of the cartel.
Commissioner of Police (Amritsar) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar detailed that, acting on specific intelligence, police teams were formed strategically and apprehended Gurdeep Singh near Lok Heart School on Ram Tirath Road in Amritsar, recovering the drug consignment and hawala money from him.
This operation was executed under the oversight of DCP (Detective) Ravinderpal Singh, ADCP (Detective) Jagbinder Singh, and ACP (Detective) Harminder Singh Sandhu.
During questioning, Gurdeep disclosed the involvement of Pardeep Sharma and Mani Sharma, revealing that the latter had delivered ₹5 lakh each in drug proceeds. In light of this information, police teams located and apprehended both suspects, with further investigations continuing.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies like the Punjab Police in combating drug trafficking and hawala activities. This recent operation underscores the complexities of international smuggling networks and the ongoing commitment to ensuring public safety and security.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the recent operation by Punjab Police about?
The Punjab Police recently dismantled a drug smuggling cartel linked to a Turkey-based smuggler, with three operatives arrested and significant amounts of heroin and hawala money seized.
Who are the key individuals involved in the cartel?
The arrested operatives include Gurdeep Singh, Pardeep Sharma, and Mani Sharma, who were involved in local drug and hawala operations.
What are the implications of this operation?
This operation highlights the ongoing issue of international drug smuggling and the efforts being made by law enforcement to combat it.
How is the Punjab Police addressing drug trafficking?
The Punjab Police are actively investigating drug networks and conducting operations to apprehend key figures involved in trafficking.
What should the public know about drug trafficking in Punjab?
The public should be aware of the serious implications of drug trafficking and the police's commitment to tackling this issue for community safety.
