Breaking Down the ISI-Backed Arms Network: A Major Victory for Punjab Police

The Punjab Police, in a significant and commendable operation, has successfully dismantled a sophisticated Punjab arms network operating across the border, directly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). This crackdown led to the apprehension of five key individuals and the seizure of a substantial cache of weapons, ammunition, and drug money, marking a crucial blow against trans-border criminal activities and terrorist nexus.

The Operation: Unraveling the Punjab Arms Network

• Intelligence-Led Action: The Amritsar Rural Police, working in close coordination with central agencies, executed a meticulously planned operation that resulted in busting this major Punjab arms network. This highlights the growing effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation in combating cross-border threats.
• Five Key Accused Arrested: The police identified and arrested five primary accused in connection with the illicit network. These individuals are Jobanjit Singh alias Joban (resident of Village Rangharh), Gora Singh (resident of Village Rangharh), Shenshan alias Shalu (resident of Rasulpur Kallar, Amritsar), Sunny Singh alias Ganna (resident of Rasulpur Kallar, Amritsar), and Jaspreet Singh alias Motu (resident of Mugal Mangri, District Rupnagar).
• Significant Seizures: The operation yielded critical evidence, including:
  • One AK Saiga 308 assault rifle with two magazines.
  • Two Glock pistols 9mm with four magazines.
  • 90 live cartridges of AK Rifle.
  • 10 live cartridges (9mm).
  • Rs 7.50 lakh in drug money.
  • One car used in the operation.
  • Three mobile phones, likely containing vital communication data.

Deepening the Nexus: ISI, Gangsters, and the Punjab Arms Network

• Direct ISI Links: Preliminary investigations have revealed alarming direct links between the arrested individuals and Pakistan-based ISI operatives. This unequivocally confirms the involvement of foreign hostile agencies in destabilizing the region through the proliferation of illicit arms and narcotics.
• Gangster Connection: The seized consignment was reportedly intended for Nav @ Nav Pandori, a known associate of notorious gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. This revelation underscores a disturbing terror-gangster nexus, where organized crime syndicates are being leveraged by state-sponsored elements to further their nefarious agendas, thereby strengthening the reach of the Punjab arms network.
• Kingpin Identified: Sarabjeet Joban has been identified as the alleged kingpin of this extensive network. His direct links to Rana, a notorious Pakistani smuggler, indicate a well-established and long-standing channel for cross-border criminal activities. Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar stated that Joban had been involved in dropping consignments on the Indian side by identifying various locations for a considerable period.

Broader Implications and Ongoing Efforts Against Illegal Arms

• Disruption of Funding: The seizure of Rs 7.50 lakh in drug money highlights the intrinsic link between drug trafficking and arms smuggling. Disrupting these financial channels is crucial in crippling such trans-border networks and preventing them from funding further illicit operations of the Punjab arms network.
• Reinforced Security: This successful operation by the Amritsar Rural Police, lauded by Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, is a testament to the vigilance and proactive approach of the state’s law enforcement agencies. It sends a strong message to those attempting to destabilize the peace and security of Punjab.
• Continuous Crackdowns: This bust follows another significant arrest by Amritsar Police just a day prior, where four drug smugglers were apprehended and 6.106 kg of heroin was recovered. Such continuous efforts are vital in breaking the backbone of organized crime and terrorism.
• Community Safety: The dismantling of this Punjab arms network directly enhances the safety and security of the local communities by removing dangerous weapons from circulation and disrupting the flow of illicit drugs and funds.

The Punjab Police’s decisive action against this ISI-backed Punjab arms network is a vital step in safeguarding national security and maintaining law and order. The ongoing collaboration between state and central agencies will be paramount in completely eradicating such threats and ensuring the long-term stability of the region.