How Did Punjab Police Uncover a Cross-Border Weapon Smuggling Network?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Punjab Police successfully disrupted a cross-border weapon smuggling network.
- Three suspects were arrested, revealing links to a Pakistan-based arms dealer.
- Eight firearms were seized, including advanced pistols.
- The operation involved intelligence-led strategies and coordination.
- Ongoing investigations aim to fully dismantle the smuggling network.
Chandigarh, Oct 11 (NationPress) - In a meticulously planned operation, the Counter Intelligence (CI) unit of Amritsar has dismantled a cross-border weapon smuggling network linked to Pakistan. This operation led to the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of eight advanced pistols, as confirmed by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, on Saturday.
The detained individuals have been identified as Mahesh and Angrej Singh, both from Marhi Megha village in Tarn Taran; and Arshdeep Singh, hailing from Bhikhiwind in the same district.
The seized firearms consist of three 9MM pistols and five .30 bore pistols, complete with magazines. Additionally, law enforcement has confiscated the motorcycle utilized for transporting the illicit consignments.
DGP Yadav indicated that initial investigations show the accused were operating under the instruction of a Pakistan-based arms dealer, who is reportedly using drones to smuggle contraband across the border.
The suspects were allegedly supplying firearms and ammunition to criminals and gangs in Punjab, aiming to incite further criminal activities within the state, he stated.
Elaborating on the operation, he mentioned that the CI Amritsar had received targeted intelligence regarding the retrieval of a significant cache of illegal weapons from the India-Pakistan border, facilitated by drones in the vicinity of Marhi Kamboke village in Tarn Taran district.
Responding promptly, a police team apprehended the three suspects near Bhoose village in Amritsar Rural, successfully seizing the illegal weapons they were set to deliver to another party in the area, he noted.
The DGP added that Mahesh and Angrej Singh are wanted in previous cases registered under the Arms Act at an Amritsar police station, where five pistols had been recovered earlier.
Investigations are ongoing to establish connections within this case to fully dismantle the entire network, the DGP concluded.