Stories
JK Police Uncover Pakistan-Linked Drug and Arms Network Using Social Media
- •Jammu and Kashmir Police uncovered a nexus between Pakistan-based drug networks, social media platforms, and local criminals targeting vulnerable youths.
- •Suspects arrested in the Arnia sector revealed they used Instagram to communicate with Pakistan-based handler Shehzad Bhatti.
- •The investigation exposed cross-border drone supply chains dropping narcotics and weapons in forward agricultural areas.
- •Arrested couriers allegedly supplied multiple pistols to criminal elements in Punjab, highlighting an overlap between drug trafficking and organised crime.
- •Police are building a comprehensive database and enhancing digital surveillance to intercept potential recruits before they are absorbed into terror networks.
Key Questions Answered
The investigation came to light following the arrest of two alleged couriers in the Arnia sector of Jammu, who were found in possession of an Italian-made pistol and narcotics. During questioning, the suspects disclosed they were in direct contact with a Pakistan-based handler named Shehzad Bhatti via Instagram.
Investigators revealed an alleged cross-border drone supply chain where handlers drop consignments in forward agricultural areas without requiring direct physical crossings. The suspects admitted to receiving two separate drone-dropped consignments, including one buried near a tube-well to conceal it.
The J&K Police is strengthening surveillance and intelligence-gathering mechanisms to build a detailed database of individuals and networks involved in drug trafficking and weapons movement. They are monitoring digital connections across social media and gaming platforms to identify potential recruits at an early stage before they join terror networks.
