Three arrested as inter-state operation exposes drugs-arms nexus
JJ Correspondent
AMRITSAR/JAMMU, JUNE 16: In a significant breakthrough against narco-terrorism and interstate drug trafficking, Jammu & Kashmir Police has busted a suspected module linked to the network of notorious drug trafficker Gulzar Ahmad alias Lau Gujjar, arresting three of his alleged associates from a flat in Amritsar and recovering an AK-47 assault rifle, a pistol, 50-60 rounds of live ammunition and a substantial quantity of heroin.
The operation marks a major development in the ongoing investigation into the narco-trafficking network allegedly operated by Lau Gujjar, who was arrested earlier this year by J&K Police in a high-profile anti-narcotics operation.
Following his arrest, investigators continued to pursue leads regarding his associates, logistics handlers and interstate supply chains believed to be involved in the transportation of narcotics and illegal weapons.
According to police sources, fresh intelligence generated during the investigation pointed towards the presence of key operatives linked to the network in Punjab.
Acting on these inputs, specialized teams of J&K Police tracked the suspects to Amritsar and conducted a carefully planned raid at a residential flat, leading to the arrest of three accused identified as Surajdeep Singh, Harpreet Singh and Jasmeet Singh.
During the search operation, police recovered an AK-47 assault rifle, a pistol, dozens of live rounds and a large quantity of heroin, indicating the existence of a well-organized network with access to both narcotics and sophisticated weapons.
The recovery has reinforced concerns over the growing nexus between drug trafficking and illegal arms smuggling.
Investigators believe the arrested accused were playing an active role in the transportation, storage and distribution of narcotics while also facilitating logistical support for the movement of illegal weapons.
Preliminary findings suggest that the module was functioning as an important link in the wider network allegedly associated with Lau Gujjar.
Police sources said the arrested accused are being subjected to sustained questioning to establish their exact roles within the syndicate, identify their handlers and uncover the full operational structure of the network.
Investigators are also probing possible links with cross-border drug smuggling channels and other criminal elements operating across multiple states.
The seized digital devices, mobile phones and financial records are being examined to trace communication patterns, money trails and contacts maintained by the accused.
Officials believe the analysis could reveal the identities of additional operatives, financiers and facilitators connected to the network.
The recovery of an assault rifle alongside heroin is being viewed as a significant indicator of the dangerous convergence between narcotics trafficking and organized criminal activity.
Security agencies are treating the case with utmost seriousness due to its potential implications for regional security and public safety.
Senior police officials described the operation as a major blow to the criminal infrastructure allegedly built around Lau Gujjar’s network.
They reiterated that the crackdown against narco-terror elements will continue relentlessly and that every individual connected with the syndicate, directly or indirectly, will be identified and brought to justice.
With investigations expanding across state boundaries, further arrests, recoveries and disclosures are expected in the coming days as J&K Police works to dismantle the remaining links of the network and expose its wider operational footprint.
