Jammu, Dec 4 (JKNS): In a major counter-narcotics operation, Jammu Police on Thursday said they have exposed a cross-border drug trafficking network, arresting six accused and confiscating nearly five kilograms of high-grade heroin along with three pistols. Officials estimated the value of the seized heroin to be over ₹30 crore in the international market.
Speaking to reporters, SP Jammu Ajay Sharma, as per news agency JKNS, said the operation marks a “big strike” against narco-terror elements operating from across the border.
“Six individuals associated with this network have been arrested. Four of them are already in judicial custody. The total recovery includes 4.95 kilograms of heroin and three pistols,” Sharma stated.
He said digital surveillance and analysis indicated that the arrested individuals were in communication with Pakistan-based handlers who were pushing narcotics and weapons with the intent to foment instability.
“This is a classic case of narco-terrorism. Their only aim was to poison our youth and weaken the nation,” Sharma said.
He added that the conspiracy amounted to an indirect war against the country, compelling investigators to apply relevant sections of the UAPA.
“The South Zone team of Jammu Police successfully dismantled the entire chain,” he asserted.
The investigation began after a case was lodged at Gandhi Nagar Police Station under the NDPS Act. During early raids, Karan Sharma of Jourian and Nikhlesh Verma of Udhampur were apprehended with 3.26 kg of heroin.
Subsequent leads resulted in the arrest of Mohammad Yousef from Narwal, Gulshan Kumar from Rajouri alleged to be the financial coordinator and Jasvinder Kumar from Nowshera. Police said additional quantities of heroin were recovered from them. Gulshan’s vehicle, modified with hidden compartments for smuggling, was also seized. Jasvinder was already facing charges in another narcotics case.
Further investigations led to the detention of Shamdin from Nikki Tawi, where a pistol, ammunition, and 619 grams of heroin were found. Another accused, Abdul Hamid of Maraliya in RS Pura, remains on the run. Two pistols, including an automatic weapon, were recovered from his residence.
Police said most members of the busted network belong to areas near the Indo-Pak border, hinting at deeper cross-border linkages. (JKNS)