Ludhiana Police have arrested two drug traffickers in Jagraon town who were operating under the guise of a salon and a grocery store to deceive the public.
Punjab: Ludhiana police achieved a significant success in their anti-narcotics drive. Two traffickers running an illegal heroin business from a salon and a grocery store were arrested. Approximately 210 grams of heroin, two mobile phones, and a motorcycle were recovered from the accused. Preliminary investigations reveal the accused were involved in the drug trade for a considerable period. Analysis of mobile data has provided leads to a larger drug network operating in the area. Police are currently conducting operations to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the network.
Arrested Accused and Their Network
The arrested accused have been identified as Gurpreet Singh (alias Pintua), a resident of Mallanwal Road, and Balwinder Singh (alias Balla), a resident of Nathuwala village. Both had been operating their drug business from a salon and a grocery store for the past two years. According to police, Gurpreet's salon was located in a busy part of town, where he sold "special goods" along with providing haircuts to young people. Balwinder, meanwhile, used his grocery store to discreetly sell small quantities of heroin alongside household items.
Confidential Information and Raid
Jagraon police had long suspected the duo but lacked concrete evidence of their activities. On Tuesday, police received confidential information indicating that the two were about to deliver a large consignment of drugs. A police team laid a trap and apprehended both men on a motorcycle on Mallanwal Road. Approximately 210 grams of heroin were recovered during a search.
Police have seized the accused's mobile phones and initiated a digital forensic investigation. Preliminary investigations have uncovered WhatsApp chats, bank transactions, and call records pointing towards a large drug network. Police suspect the duo are not merely delivery agents but part of an organized gang with roots in surrounding districts.
Police Statement
Jagraon DSP Harpal Singh, while briefing the media, stated, "This is not just the arrest of two individuals; it's the first step towards dismantling an entire drug trafficking channel. We are identifying other individuals connected to the network using their mobile data. More arrests are likely in the coming days."
The news of the arrests caused a sensation in the area. Rajesh Gupta, a nearby shopkeeper, commented, "Pintua opened his shop every morning and cut children's hair. Balla sat in his grocery store selling salt and oil to the elderly. We never imagined they were involved in such a dangerous business."
FIR Registered, Further Action Underway
Police have filed a case against both accused under sections 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. Interrogation is underway to determine their heroin source and supply areas. Investigations also suggest a possible link to an inter-state gang.
