Chandigarh/Amritsar: In a major crackdown on cross-border organised crime, the Punjab Police’s Amritsar Commissionerate has dismantled an alleged arms and narcotics smuggling module with the arrest of two suspects linked to a foreign-based handler, recovering six sophisticated pistols, 1 kg heroin, 1 kg opium and ₹10,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
According to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, preliminary investigations indicate that the accused were in direct contact with a foreign-based operative who allegedly coordinated the smuggling of illegal firearms and narcotics across the International Border for distribution to criminal networks in Punjab. Police said further investigations are underway to trace both domestic and international links of the network.
The arrested men have been identified as Joga Singh (45) of Tarn Taran and Manpreet Singh (28), also from Tarn Taran district. The seized cache includes two .30 bore X-Shot pistols, two China-made .30 calibre pistols, one Türkiye-made Zigana pistol and one PX5 Storm pistol. Police also impounded the motorcycle allegedly used in the smuggling operations.
Commissioner of Police (Amritsar) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said Joga Singh was first arrested following a tip-off, leading to the recovery of four illegal pistols. His interrogation subsequently resulted in the seizure of two more firearms. In a follow-up operation, police arrested Manpreet Singh and recovered 1 kg heroin, while an additional 1 kg opium and ₹10,000 in suspected drug money were seized based on his disclosure.
Investigators alleged that Joga Singh managed an illegal arms supply network, while Manpreet Singh operated a cross-border drug smuggling module under the directions of the same foreign-based handler.
Police also stated that Joga Singh is a habitual offender with 21 criminal cases registered since 2002, including offences under the Arms Act, NDPS Act, and cases related to murder, robbery, dacoity and theft. Authorities said the investigation remains in progress to identify other members of the alleged smuggling syndicate and its overseas connections.
