International Drug Cartel Busted in Major Cross-Border Operation

A joint operation by Punjab Police, BSF, and Rajasthan Police led to the recovery of 60 kg of heroin near the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan. The investigation dismantled an international drug cartel operated by Pakistan's Tanveer Shah and Canada's Joban Kaler, uncovering extensive smuggling networks.

In a decisive move against drug trafficking, a joint operation involving the Punjab Police, the Border Security Force (BSF), and Rajasthan Police culminated in the seizure of over 60 kilograms of heroin near the International Border in Barmer, Rajasthan. The successful crackdown dismantled a significant international drug cartel, according to Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav.

This coordinated effort led to the arrest of nine individuals suspected of being smugglers, traffickers, and hawala operators hailing from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir. Key cartel figures were identified as Pakistan-based smuggler Tanveer Shah and Canada-based Joban Kaler, with the local network allegedly run by Gursahib Singh from within Goindwal Sahib Jail, utilizing a cell phone.

The investigation revealed a sophisticated drug smuggling operation involving cross-border pathways from Pakistan through Rajasthan into Punjab. Authorities are actively pursuing further inquiries into backward linkages and financial networks, with a case registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act at Chheharta Police Station in Amritsar.

(With inputs from agencies.)