In a robust display of law enforcement, the Punjab Police have made significant strides in combating drug smuggling and organized crime over the past two and a half years. A total of 39,840 individuals involved in drug trafficking have been apprehended, including 5,856 major traffickers identified as high-profile targets smuggling commercial quantities of narcotics.
Targeting the “Big Fish”
IGP Dr. Sukhchain Singh Gill, the spokesperson for the Punjab Police, highlighted that since March 2022, authorities have registered 29,152 first information reports (FIRs), with 3,581 cases directly linked to large-scale drug operations. These major traffickers, classified as “big fish,” typically handle significant amounts of heroin—250 grams or more—making their capture pivotal in disrupting drug supply chains.
Massive Seizures and Asset Forfeiture
The diligent efforts of the Punjab Police have led to the seizure of substantial quantities of illegal substances and financial assets. Authorities have confiscated:
- 2,546 kilograms of heroin
- 2,457 kilograms of opium
- 1,156 quintals of poppy husk
- 4.29 crore tablets, capsules, and injections of pharmaceutical opioids
In addition, Rs 30.83 crore in drug-related funds has been seized. The crackdown has extended to property seizures, with assets worth Rs 324.28 crore confiscated from 602 major smugglers. Another 192 cases, involving assets totaling Rs 103.50 crore, are currently pending approval for seizure.
Comprehensive Strategy: Enforcement, Prevention, and Rehabilitation
The Punjab government has implemented a three-pronged strategy focusing on enforcement, prevention, and rehabilitation to tackle the drug menace effectively. Under Section 64-A of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 295 drug users caught with small quantities of narcotics have chosen rehabilitation over legal prosecution, emphasizing the state’s commitment to addressing the root causes of addiction.
Cracking Down on Organized Crime
The Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) has been instrumental in dismantling organized crime networks. To date, the AGTF has:
- Dismantled 508 criminal modules
- Arrested 1,420 gangsters
- Neutralized 12 key figures
Moreover, the task force has recovered 1,337 weapons and Rs 4.05 crore in drug-related money, significantly weakening the operational capabilities of criminal organizations.
Counter-Terrorism Efforts Intensify
Punjab Police have also intensified their efforts against terrorism, resulting in the arrest of 272 terrorists and the seizure of a variety of arms, including rifles, pistols, grenades, and drones. Additionally, measures to curb communication among inmates have been effective, with 475 mobile numbers blocked and 6,500 social media accounts that glorified gangsters shut down.
Recent Operations Yield Significant Results
Since the beginning of 2024, the Punjab Police have continued their momentum, arresting 8,789 drug smugglers and seizing 628 kilograms of heroin along with Rs 10.32 crore in drug-related funds. These ongoing operations underscore the relentless commitment of the Punjab Police to eradicate drug trafficking and maintain public safety.
Looking Ahead
With a strategic approach encompassing rigorous enforcement, preventive measures, and rehabilitative support, the Punjab Police remain steadfast in their mission to eliminate the drug trade and organized crime within the state. The achievements over the past two and a half years stand as a testament to the effective governance and dedicated law enforcement.
