“Pakistan-Backed Weapons Smuggling Racket Busted in Amritsar”

Pakistan-Linked Arms Smuggling Racket Exposed in Amritsar, Two Arrested

April 1, 2025 – Amritsar, Punjab

The Counter Intelligence (CI) unit in Amritsar busted a Pakistan-backed weapons smuggling racket on Monday. Authorities arrested Fateh Singh and Gurpreet Singh for supplying illegal arms to gangsters linked to foreign-based criminals Lakhbir Landa and Satta Naushera. Authorities believe this network has been actively smuggling weapons into India to aid organized crime groups.

Weapons Seized During Arrest

During the operation, police seized five sophisticated firearms from the accused. The recovered weapons included two .30-bore PX5 pistols and three .30-bore star-marked pistols. Smugglers reportedly transported these firearms from Pakistan using drones, highlighting the growing use of unmanned aerial vehicles in cross-border crimes.

Pakistan-Based Smuggler Identified

Investigations revealed that a Pakistan-based smuggler named Amar was orchestrating the arms trafficking. Amar, in coordination with his associates, used drones to transport arms across the border. After drones dropped the weapons in Indian territory, Fateh Singh and Gurpreet Singh quickly retrieved them. Then, they carefully organized the cache and prepared it for further distribution. Authorities suspect that this network has been operational for an extended period.

Delivery Planned Near School of Eminence

Authorities discovered that the accused planned to deliver a fresh consignment near the School of Eminence in Naraingarh. This location was chosen to avoid suspicion and ensure a smooth handover of illegal weapons. However, police intercepted the operation, preventing the arms from reaching criminal groups. The timely action helped in disrupting potential criminal activities.

Drone Smuggling: A Growing Threat

The use of drones for smuggling weapons has become a major security concern along the India-Pakistan border. Criminal networks and terrorist organizations increasingly rely on drones to transport arms, ammunition, and narcotics. Security forces have been actively deploying counter-drone measures; nevertheless, the challenge remains significant. Consequently, authorities are constantly refining their strategies and working closely with intelligence agencies to combat the threat more effectively.

Links to Organized Crime and Terror Networks

Authorities suspect that the arrested individuals have deeper ties with organized crime syndicates operating in India and abroad. The weapons were likely intended for use in gang wars, targeted killings, or even terror-related activities. Investigations are underway to identify other members involved in the smuggling ring.

Legal Action and Ongoing Investigations

A case has been registered under the Arms Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the State Special Operations Cell police station in Amritsar. Investigators are now tracing other possible links within this smuggling network. Authorities are also looking into the larger implications of this case, including connections to organized crime and potential threats to national security.

Government’s Response to Cross-Border Smuggling

The Punjab government and central agencies are working together to combat cross-border smuggling. Recent operations have focused on dismantling drone networks and strengthening border security. Officials have reiterated their commitment to preventing the infiltration of illegal weapons and maintaining national security.

Strengthening Security Measures

This incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced border surveillance and stricter drone regulations. Security forces remain vigilant, but criminals continue to find new methods to smuggle weapons. The crackdown on this smuggling network marks a significant step in curbing organized crime, but sustained efforts are necessary to eliminate such threats permanently.