JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Jammu Police have busted a major narco-terror module while investigating the network of notorious smuggler Gulzar Ahmed, alias ‘Lau Gujjar’. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Joginder Singh, stated that this network—operated from across the border—first pushes youth into drug addiction and subsequently attempts to steer them toward criminal and terrorist activities.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, the SSP said that indications of an international network emerged during the investigation of two major recent drug smuggling cases. Police investigations revealed that certain smugglers active in Jammu and Kashmir were in contact with elements based across the border. Weapons, alongside narcotics, had also been recovered from the accused arrested earlier.
Recovery of Weapons from Amritsar Raises Concerns
According to SSP Joginder Singh, shocking facts have come to light following the arrest of individuals linked to Lau Gujjar’s network. During an operation conducted in Amritsar, Punjab, authorities recovered an AK-47 rifle, an AK-56 rifle, a pistol, and a large quantity of ammunition, in addition to drugs, cash, and vehicles.
He remarked that this recovery indicates how a hostile nation seeks to ensnare youth through drugs and utilize them for anti-national activities.
Jammu, Samba, and Kathua Targeted by Smugglers
Police investigations revealed that consignments of narcotics were being transported from Punjab to Jammu and Kashmir. The districts of Jammu, Samba, and Kathua were primary targets of this network. In addition to the Rakh Amb Talli and Rukhiya areas of Samba, the Bishnah and RS Pura areas of Jammu district have also been identified as sensitive hotspots.
The SSP stated that the initial arrest involved Mohammad Latif, a resident of Punjab, who was acting as a courier for this network. His interrogation revealed details about the entire supply network.
‘Drug-Free Jammu’ Campaign in Final Phase
SSP Joginder Singh stated that the “Drug-Free Jammu” campaign has now reached a decisive stage. The police have not only focused on dismantling the supply chain but have also revised their strategy to curb the demand for drugs. Strict action is now being taken against drug consumers and small-scale peddlers as well.
He informed that 288 FIRs have been registered so far under the campaign, while a total of 382 cases have been filed under the NDPS Act up to June 16. Of these, approximately 140 cases involve drug consumers and small-scale peddlers. Additionally, around 20 individuals linked to the supply chain have been arrested.
The police have appealed to the public to immediately report any suspicious activity so that this nexus between drugs and terror can be completely eliminated.
