Inter-State Narco-Module Links Unearthed: Tracing the Nexus from Kashmir to Punjab, Reveals J&K DGP
DGP J&K Exposes Intricate Links: Cocaine Haul, Fake Plates, and Revolvers in Inter-State Drug Module
Jammu, 12-10-2023: The Director General of Police (DGP) for Jammu and Kashmir, Dilbag Singh, revealed that a strong inter-state narco-module’s links have been traced from north Kashmir’s Kupwara district to Ludhiana in Punjab.
This announcement comes after the recent bust of an extensive drug smuggling operation. Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, with four apprehended in Kupwara and four from Punjab. Law enforcement seized a substantial haul of 30 kilograms of what appears to be cocaine, Rs 5 crore in cash, 40 counterfeit vehicle number plates, passports, and a German-made revolver.
The DGP addressed the media during a press conference at District Police Lines (DPL) Jammu, stating that while the final report from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) is pending, the seized substance appears to be cocaine. Investigations revealed that the narco-module had strong connections with the Kupwara district, particularly the Amrohi area, which has become a preferred route for narco-smuggling. The fresh consignment of narcotics was also traced to this route. The police have registered 12 cases related to narco-terrorism in the Amrohi area. Although there’s no evidence of drone-dropped narcotics, credible leads indicate that physical smuggling has occurred. Following the arrest of four suspects from Kupwara, the J&K police, in collaboration with Punjab police, detained four more individuals, including a key figure in the drug trade. Investigations exposed that the arrested key figure’s father was also involved in drug dealing. The recovery of counterfeit number plates, passports, and police badges raises questions about the methods used to deceive authorities during the drug transportation process, possibly involving impersonation of police officials.
The DGP emphasized that narcotics are being transported from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir to support and fuel terrorism, with links to major terror organizations uncovered during the investigations. As the investigations continue, more arrests are expected, and the DGP mentioned that there is a preliminary estimate of around 7 lakh drug abusers in Jammu and Kashmir. However, an official study or census is pending.
