A major trans-border arms and drug smuggling network, allegedly backed by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has been busted by the Punjab Police in coordination with central agencies. The operation led to the arrest of five key operatives.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Jobanjit Singh alias Joban, Gora Singh, Shenshan alias Shalu, Sunny Singh alias Ganna, and Jaspreet Singh alias Motu. Preliminary investigations reveal that the accused were in direct contact with ISI handlers based in Pakistan.

According to Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, the Amritsar Rural Police seized a significant cache of weapons and materials. This included one AK Saiga 308 assault rifle with two magazines, two Glock 9mm pistols with four magazines, 90 live cartridges of the AK rifle, and 10 live 9mm cartridges. Police also recovered ₹7.5 lakh in drug money, a car, and three mobile phones.

The intercepted consignment was intended to be delivered to Nav alias Nav Pandori, a known associate of gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, suggesting a deeper terror-gangster nexus. Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, hails from Gurdaspur and is considered one of the most notorious gangsters in Punjab. He has been implicated in over 120 criminal cases, including charges of murder, extortion, drug trafficking, and violations of the Arms Act. Jaggu Bhagwanpuria is also believed to be a mentor and close associate of Lawrence Bishnoi, another high-profile gangster.

This successful operation highlights the ongoing efforts by the Punjab Police and central agencies to combat cross-border smuggling and maintain security in the region. The bust underscores the persistent threat posed by ISI-backed networks seeking to destabilize the region through arms and drug trafficking.