JAMMU, OCT 6: A suspected Pakistan-linked drone-dropping network involved in the smuggling of narcotics and illegal arms into Jammu has been busted with the arrest of two local operatives and recovery of one kilogram of narcotics, an Italian-made pistol, two magazines and four live rounds from a forward village in the Arnia sector, officials said on Tuesday.
The breakthrough came during a follow-up investigation into the alleged drone-based airdropping of narcotics consignments from across the International Border, with investigators tracking the movement of a consignment allegedly delivered by Pakistan-based handlers. The operation culminated in the late-night arrests of Rahul Kumar of Trewa and Ajay Kumar of Talahar from their respective residences.
Officials said the recovered contraband included 500 grams of heroin and 500 grams of opium, indicating that the drone route was allegedly being used not merely for isolated deliveries but as a channel for moving substantial quantities of narcotics into the border belt. The recovery of a firearm and ammunition alongside the drugs has further widened the scope of the investigation.
During questioning, the accused allegedly disclosed their links with Pakistan-based handlers and admitted to having received two drone-dropped consignments earlier, providing investigators with leads to trace the wider network operating behind the aerial supply chain.
Investigators are now working to establish the complete drone-to-ground chain, including the identities of the overseas handlers, the locations where consignments were dropped, the persons responsible for collecting and concealing the material, and its subsequent distribution. The probe is also examining whether the same network facilitated the movement of weapons along with narcotics.
The use of drones has emerged as a significant challenge along the International Border, allowing handlers operating from across the border to attempt delivery of contraband without physically crossing into Indian territory. The latest case has consequently prompted investigators to examine previous suspected drone-dropping incidents in the area and possible links between local receivers.
The simultaneous recovery of heroin, opium and a pistol with ammunition has given the investigation a wider security dimension, with agencies probing whether the narcotics channel was being exploited for the movement of other prohibited material as well.
An FIR has been registered under relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and the Arms Act. Further investigation is underway to identify additional members of the network, trace the source and destination of the consignments and determine the full extent of the alleged cross-border operation.
