Amritsar, 23 July (H.S.): Punjab Police arrested a man with 6.72 kg of heroin in the Ajnala area of Amritsar district. The seized contraband is estimated to be worth several crores of rupees in the international illicit market. Police have launched a detailed investigation and are questioning the accused to trace the larger network behind the smuggling operation.

The accused has been identified as Shamsher Singh, a resident of Bachhiwind village under Lopoke Police Station. According to police, he had been staying in a rented house in Shimba Colony, located opposite the BSF campus in Ajnala.

Acting on a confidential tip-off, a police team raided the rented accommodation and recovered 6.72 kg of heroin during the search. The accused was arrested on the spot, and a case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

During the preliminary investigation, police are also examining whether the drug consignment has links to a Pakistan-based cross-border smuggling network, considering Ajnala's proximity to the international border.

Investigating agencies believe the interrogation of the accused could lead to crucial information about a larger drug trafficking syndicate and other individuals involved in the illegal trade.

Police are now trying to establish the source of the seized heroin and its intended destination. Officials said the investigation is being carried out from all angles, and more arrests are likely based on the findings of the ongoing probe.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH