The Punjab Police’s Special Task Force (STF) has successfully disrupted an inter-state network involved in the illicit manufacturing and distribution of pharmaceuticals, specifically psychotropic chemicals, through a major intelligence-driven operation. The operation, which lasted for several months and required thorough investigations, resulted in the significant amount of illegal substances being seized and the arrest of important individuals.
The story begins with the arrest of two drug smugglers, Sukhwinder Singh alias Dhami and Jaspreet Singh alias Jass, following the recovery of a large quantity of narcotic tablets/capsules and drug money earlier this year. This initial breakthrough led the STF into a deep dive investigation into the backward and forward linkages of the drug network, ultimately uncovering a sophisticated operation rooted in multiple states.
The main focus of the operation was a pharmaceutical facility situated in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. The plant functioned as a central location for the illicit production of psychoactive drugs, having links to multiple supply chains that operated throughout Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The complex logistics and coordination of the modus operandi underscored the organized character of the drug trafficking organization.
The significance of the operation was highlighted by the arrest of seven drug smugglers/suppliers and the recovery of a sizable amount of intoxicant tablets/capsules and Tramadol powder. During the course of the inquiry, important players’ roles—among them, the primary kingpin Alex Paliwal—were revealed. Deploying Paliwal in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, was a major step toward breaking up the drug network.
Subsequent inquiries demonstrated the drug network’s broad reach, following the supply chain from M/s Aster Pharma in Maharashtra to Biogenetic Drug Private Limited in Himachal Pradesh. The investigation also revealed the involvement of Baddi, Himachal Pradesh-based Smilex Pharmachem Drug Industries, a sister pharmaceutical manufacturing business.
Not content to stop at the manufacturing level, the inquiry also probed the transportation and distribution networks, resulting in the capture of more members of the drug trafficking network. The fact that extra intoxicating tablets or capsules were found close to the Chandigarh Railway Station served as more evidence of how pervasive the illegal drug trade is.
In order to break through the complex network of interstate drug trafficking, law enforcement agencies such as the STF, Drug Control Officers, and local police units worked together. The operation demonstrated the potency of intelligence-based policing and the resolve of law enforcement to counter illicit drug activity.
The case’s legal ramifications, as described in the sections of the NDPS Act under which it was registered, emphasized the seriousness of the accusations and the determination to prosecute drug traffickers to the fullest extent of the law.
This big bust has an impact that goes beyond the quick arrests and seizures. It sends a clear message about the zero-tolerance policy for drug-related crimes and acts as a warning to criminal syndicates operating in the area. Continued efforts to disrupt drug networks and protect the safety and wellbeing of communities impacted by drug misuse are indicated by the ongoing investigations and the upcoming arrests.
An important victory in the war against organized crime and illegal drug activity is the Amritsar drug trafficking case. In order to protect society from the scourge of drug trafficking, it emphasizes the commitment of law enforcement agencies to taking on intricate drug networks and underscores the significance of teamwork, intelligence-driven operations, and strict enforcement of drug laws.
SOURCE:
TIMES OF INDIA
