Shimla, April 17: In a major breakthrough in the fight against narcotics, the Himachal Pradesh Police has busted an international drug smuggling network operating in the Nurpur area of Kangra district, seizing assets worth nearly ₹3 crore and arresting six accused. Investigations have revealed that the syndicate has international links extending to Dubai.
Addressing the media, Director General of Police (DGP) Dr. Atul Verma stated that this success is part of a coordinated crackdown on narcotics trafficking. The operation led to the seizure of 262 grams of heroin, ₹1.15 crore in cash, 192 grams of gold and silver, luxury vehicles, bank fixed deposits, and insurance policies.
The Timeline of the Bust
The case began unfolding on October 27, 2024, when Kushal Singh was caught with 262 grams of heroin on NH-44 in Indora. His arrest triggered a deeper investigation that uncovered a vast and organized smuggling network.
Ankur Kumar was arrested on April 8
Raj Kumar alias Mohit was arrested on April 13
Akash Kumar was taken into custody on April 15
Mohit Singh alias Tony followed on April 17
The most dramatic breakthrough came on April 16, when the police raided Sarela village and recovered ₹1.15 crore cash, 125 grams of gold, 4 grams of silver, two Verna cars, two mobile phones, fixed deposits worth ₹52.52 lakh, insurance policies, and property documents.
The Elusive Kingpin and Dubai Connection
According to the DGP, the gang’s mastermind, Vishal, is already facing multiple NDPS cases and had previously been caught with heroin worth ₹1.04 crore. He is currently absconding after securing bail from the High Court. Investigators believe that drug proceeds were being funneled abroad, with Dubai acting as a key link in this international network.
Next Steps: Crackdown to Continue
The police have initiated proceedings to confiscate illegally acquired assets and are tracking down more properties linked to the accused. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to tracing every link and uprooting the drug trade from Himachal Pradesh,” said DGP Atul Verma.
Seizure Highlights:
₹1.15 crore cash
125g gold, 4g silver
262g heroin
Two luxury vehicles
FDRs worth ₹52.52 lakh
Insurance policies, property documents
Himachal Pradesh Police’s aggressive stance on drug trafficking is setting a strong precedent as authorities pledge to continue their fight till every chain in the syndicate is broken.