Tarn Taran, May 5: Authorities in Tarn Taran have frozen properties and financial assets totaling ₹65 crore as part of a sustained crackdown on organized crime syndicates linked to cross-border smuggling. The initiative, conducted under the state’s “Gangstran Te Vaar” policy, focuses on dismantling the financial infrastructure of gangs operating along the 102-kilometer border with Pakistan.
Senior Superintendent of Police Surendra Lamba stated that the majority of these assets were neutralized within the last three months. He affirmed that the frozen wealth was directly connected to individuals facilitating the transit of narcotics and illegal weapons into Punjab.
“As we share a long border with Pakistan, the hostile neighbor has been actively involved in sending narcotics and weapons via drones,” SSP Lamba asserted. He noted that while smuggling techniques have become more complex, the district police have deployed a targeted strategy to disrupt these illegal revenue streams.
Law enforcement data reveals a significant surge in enforcement actions. Over the past 90 days, police registered 490 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, resulting in 630 arrests and the seizure of more than 47 kg of heroin. This follows a broader trend of increased vigilance, with previous yearly records showing 1,662 arrests and 244 kg of heroin recovered in the prior calendar year.
The “drone-drugs-guns” operational model has become a primary focus for security agencies. Officials declared that unmanned aerial vehicles, capable of carrying payloads up to 25 kg, frequently penetrate five to 15 kilometers into Indian territory. These drones are often equipped with GPS systems and pre-fed route maps to ensure precise deliveries.
“Gangsters are using drug and arms proceeds to strengthen their networks,” SSP Lamba said. He maintained that local operatives are frequently utilized for extortion and intimidation to maintain control over these lucrative smuggling routes.
To counter these technological threats, the Punjab Police are integrating artificial intelligence and anti-drone systems into their daily operations. Recent actions under “Operation Prahar” saw the deployment of 50 specialized teams, leading to the arrest of 236 individuals in less than a week.
