Punjab Police Dismantles Cross-Border Smuggling Ring, Arrests One

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Punjab Police Dismantles Cross-Border Smuggling Ring, Arrests One

Synopsis

Punjab Police in Ferozepur apprehended gangster Hardeep Singh, alias Deepa, dismantling a cross-border smuggling network. The operation revealed a significant cache of illicit weapons and drugs, with ongoing investigations into foreign connections and further criminal activities.

Key Takeaways

  • Cross-border smuggling operation dismantled.
  • Arrest of gangster Hardeep Singh.
  • Seizure of weapons and heroin.
  • Investigations into foreign entities ongoing.
  • Efforts to track additional members of the smuggling network.

Chandigarh, March 2 (NationPress) The Counter Intelligence unit of Punjab Police in Ferozepur has successfully dismantled a cross-border smuggling operation, resulting in the capture of the smuggler and gangster Hardeep Singh, known as Deepa, according to statements made by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Sunday.

The authorities seized an extensive collection of weapons including one 9MM Glock pistol, one .30 MM Beretta pistol, and one pump action gun, along with three magazines and 141 assorted cartridges, in addition to 45 grams of heroin from his possession.

DGP Yadav stated that initial investigations suggest these weapons were acquired from Pakistan through an unidentified foreign entity, intended for terrorist and criminal activities within the state.

He further indicated that the arrested individual was meant to distribute these seized weapons to operatives associated with terror and criminal factions. The investigation is currently focused on identifying the foreign entity and its extensive network.

The DGP noted that additional inquiries are ongoing to fully expose the entire smuggling network, with efforts directed at locating other individuals involved in this operation and tracing the origins of the illicit weapons.

Assistant Inspector General (Ferozepur) Lakhbir Singh elaborated that police teams had received credible intelligence regarding Hardeep Deepa’s involvement in weapon and drug smuggling. The information indicated that he had recently obtained a consignment of weapons intended for further distribution to criminals.

In response, police teams established a checkpoint near Punj Garain Morh in Kotkapura and attempted to halt the driver of a Swift car. Instead of complying, the suspect attempted to flee, prompting a pursuit.

Ultimately, police managed to apprehend him in the vicinity of Punj Garain village, as his vehicle overturned after he suddenly turned onto a narrow road.

This individual has a documented criminal record, with four cases filed against him in Moga, Ferozepur, and Fazilka related to the Arms Act, attempted murder, and other serious offenses.

After being released on bail in April 2024, he resumed his criminal endeavors.