Punjab: Amritsar Police dismantles three drug trafficking, arms supply networks; five held

Amritsar (Punjab) [India], September 30 (ANI): Amritsar Commissionerate Police has dismantled three drug trafficking and illegal arms supply networks and arrested five accused, recovering 13 pistols, 3.267 kg of heroin and 22 live cartridges, police said.
According to police, preliminary investigation has revealed that the arrested accused were allegedly involved in the supply of illegal weapons and narcotics.
Separate FIRs have been registered at Police Station D-Division and Police Station Chheharta in Amritsar. Further investigation is underway to uncover the complete backward and forward linkages of the networks and identify other persons involved, including foreign-based handlers.
Punjab Police said that it remains committed to dismantling drug trafficking and illegal arms networks and making Punjab a safe and drug-free state.
Earlier on Wednesday, Amritsar Commissionerate Police busted two alleged ISI-backed cross-border terror modules and apprehended nine accused, including four juveniles, recovering illegal weapons, explosive material and ammunition.
According to Punjab Police, the operation led to the recovery of three illegal pistols, four petrol bottle bombs and nine live cartridges from the accused.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused were allegedly acting at the behest of foreign-based ISI handlers who were attempting to recruit local youth for carrying out terror-related activities, conducting surveillance of security installations, procuring illegal weapons and disturbing public peace, police said.
The investigation also revealed that surveillance cameras were allegedly installed near railway tracks, with footage reportedly being shared with foreign handlers, according to police.
Punjab Police said that FIRs have been registered at Police Stations Mohkampura, Airport and C-Division in Amritsar.
Further investigation is underway to identify other members linked to the alleged ISI-backed network, establish forward and backward linkages, trace the financial trail and probe any involvement in other terror-related activities.
The Amritsar Commissionerate Police said it remains committed to dismantling terror networks and ensuring the safety, security and sovereignty of Punjab. (ANI)