A recent report by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) indicates that drug-laden drones originating from Pakistan pose a significant threat to India's internal security. The report, released on Tuesday, highlights a sharp increase in the sightings and recovery of these drones along the international border in Punjab over the past four years. This evolving modus operandi has replaced traditional smuggling methods and presents a complex challenge for law enforcement and border security agencies.
The NCB's annual report for 2024, released by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the 2nd national conference of heads of anti-narcotics task force (ANTF) of various states and UTs, reveals a six-fold increase in the seizure of synthetic drugs between 2019 and 2024. The report specifically points to the use of drones for cross-border smuggling of narcotics as a major concern, particularly in Punjab.
The border districts of Punjab, including Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Gurdaspur, have witnessed a sharp increase in drone sightings and narcotics recoveries. In 2024, the number of such seizures reached 179, a significant jump from just three cases in 2021. The recovered drug consignments mainly consist of heroin and opium. Out of the 179 cases of drug trafficking through drones along the India-Pakistan border reported last year, 163 occurred in Punjab, 15 in Rajasthan, and one in Jammu and Kashmir. The total drug recovery was approximately 236 kg, according to the report.
The report also highlights a significant trend: a six-time increase in the seizure of synthetic drugs over the last six years (2019-24). This includes ATS (Amphetamine-Type Stimulants) and other synthetic substances. In December 2024, a Pakistani drone carrying nearly half a kg of high-grade narcotic substance was seized by the Border Security Force (BSF) near the International Border in Jammu, further emphasizing the persistent threat. The quadcopter had entered India from across the border and was seized from the Chinaz Border Outpost area in the Arnia sector.
The increasing use of drones for drug smuggling necessitates a multi-pronged approach to counter this threat. This includes enhanced border surveillance, technological upgrades for detection and interception of drones, and close coordination between various law enforcement agencies. Strengthening international cooperation to address the issue at its source is also crucial. The NCB report serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard India's internal security from the menace of drug-laden drones.
