New Delhi, Apr 9 (PTI) – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made a significant breakthrough in the case involving a massive narcotics haul worth Rs 700 crore at Punjab’s Attari. The key accused, Harwinder Singh alias Soshi Pannu, was arrested in connection with the illegal drug distribution network. The probe revealed that Singh was actively involved in trafficking drugs, managing cash, and laundering drug proceeds through various channels, including banking and hawala transactions. With this latest arrest, the total number of individuals apprehended in relation to the case has risen to six.
The case revolves around an intricate conspiracy orchestrated by an international drug cartel to smuggle drugs into India through multiple distributors and funnel the profits to overseas kingpins. The investigation was triggered by two seizures totaling 102.784 kgs of heroin estimated at Rs 700 crore by Indian customs authorities in April 2022. The heroin was concealed within a consignment of Licorice roots (Mulethi) that had entered India from Afghanistan through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, Amritsar.
Following the trail, the NIA discovered that under the directions of Dubai-based fugitive Shahid Ahmed alias Qazi Abdul Wadood, the heroin shipment was dispatched to India by Afghanistan-based accused Nazir Ahmed Qani. The consignment was intended for delivery to another accused, Razi Haider Zaidi, in India for further dissemination across the nation. Zaidi and an accomplice, Vipin Mittal, were previously arrested in connection with the case.
Furthermore, a sum of Rs 1.34 crore in drug proceeds was seized from co-accused Amritpal Singh and subsequently frozen according to legal mandates. Singh was apprehended on December 15, 2023, while attempting to flee the country. Meanwhile, Shahid Ahmed alias Qazi Abdul Wadood and Nazir Ahmed Qani remain at large, evading law enforcement agencies.
Notably, a chargesheet was filed by the NIA on December 16, 2022, against four accused persons, including Shahid Ahmed alias Qazi Abdul Wadood, Nazir Ahmed Qani, Razi Haider Zaidi, and Vipin Mittal, marking a crucial development in the legal proceedings related to the case.
The arrest of Harwinder Singh represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and curb the proliferation of illicit substances in the region. The NIA’s relentless pursuit of justice underscores the commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding communities against the threats posed by organized crime and drug syndicates.
The continued vigilance and collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies are essential in combating the menace of drug trafficking and ensuring a secure environment for all citizens. The latest arrest serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the authorities in tackling transnational criminal activities and safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s borders.
