New Delhi: Punjab Police have busted a suspected cross-border heroin smuggling network with the arrest of two people, including a woman, and recovered 7.8 kg of heroin valued at more than ₹40 crore.
The operation was carried out by Pathankot Police as part of the state government’s anti-drug campaign, Yudh Nashian Virudh, aimed at eliminating drug trafficking and making Punjab drug-free.
The arrested accused have been identified as Gurpanth, a resident of Vadala village in Amritsar Rural, and Harmanjeet Kaur, who belongs to Dhianpur in Gurdaspur district.
According to the preliminary investigation, the case came to light after police received intelligence about suspected narcotics activity. A team from the Special Branch in Pathankot intercepted Gurpanth and recovered 590 grams of heroin from his possession.
Further investigation and examination of his mobile phone led police to a rented accommodation in Fatehgarh Churian. During a subsequent raid, officers arrested Harmanjeet Kaur and seized another 7.23 kg of heroin from the premises.
Investigators have reportedly found indications of cross-border links in the suspected smuggling operation. Some of the recovered packets allegedly carried Pakistani markings, raising suspicions about the origin and movement of the contraband.
Police are also examining digital evidence recovered during the investigation. Videos linked to suspected drug consignments, along with financial transactions and account details, are being analysed to establish the network’s operations and identify other individuals involved.
The investigation is continuing, with authorities focusing on tracing the wider narcotics supply chain, following the financial trail and identifying possible additional suspects.
The seizure represents a significant recovery in the state’s ongoing campaign against drug trafficking. Officials are seeking to establish the full extent of the alleged cross-border connections and determine how the narcotics entered the local distribution network.
Further action is expected as investigators analyse the evidence collected during the arrests and raids.
