Electronic evidence likely to uncover deeper links within smuggling ring
JAMMU, APR 12: In a significant escalation of its crackdown on organized crime, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police has intensified its operations against the notorious smuggling syndicate headed by Lau Gujjar, following his arrest and ongoing interrogation.
Acting on crucial leads obtained during the remand of Lau Gujjar, SOG teams, in coordination with teams from Police Stations Gharota and Akhnoor, conducted extensive early morning raids in the Ambaran area on Sunday.
The operation targeted key nodes of the syndicate believed to be involved in drug trafficking and illegal cattle smuggling across multiple states.
During the raids, police detained two suspected associates identified as Shabir Ali alias Kalu, a resident of Ambaran, and Majida, a resident of Bishnah. Shabir Ali, reportedly working as a daily wager in the Jal Shakti Department, is suspected to have played a logistical role in the network. Majida, who had arrived in Ambaran just days prior, is believed to be a close associate and an active operative within the syndicate’s supply chain.
Searches conducted at the residence of Shabir Ali and his cousin Majid Khan led to the seizure of multiple mobile phones and digital devices, including those belonging to Shabir’s wife.
These devices have been sent for forensic examination, with investigators hoping to extract critical data to map the syndicate’s financial transactions, communication links, and inter-state connections.
Contrary to initial speculation, sources clarified that Majida is not a relative of Lahu Gujjar but has long been associated with his operations. Investigators suspect her recent movement to Ambaran was linked to ongoing activities of the network. Her custodial interrogation is expected to reveal vital details about the syndicate’s functioning and its expansion across districts and beyond.
Lau Gujjar, currently in police custody, is understood to have disclosed key information during questioning, providing investigators with actionable intelligence.
Authorities are now preparing for cross-interrogation of the detained suspects with the kingpin to further dismantle the network and identify remaining operatives.
A senior official involved in the investigation stated that the analysis of seized electronic evidence is underway and is likely to uncover deeper links within the smuggling ring.
“The operation is far from over. We are connecting the dots, and more arrests are expected in the coming days,” the official said.
The crackdown has triggered heightened activity in the Ambaran region, with security forces maintaining a strong presence. Meanwhile, police have appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information and urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
Reaffirming its commitment, Jammu and Kashmir Police emphasized that it will continue its relentless drive against organized crime, aiming to dismantle the entire network and curb the menace of drug and cattle smuggling in the region.
