Chandigarh, 29 April (H.S.): The Punjab Police is aggressively reinforcing its “second line of defence” a deep, technology-driven security network aimed at cutting off the lifelines of organised crime syndicates with cross-border links. While the Border Security Force (BSF) continues to secure the international border, Punjab Police is focused on ensuring that any contraband that manages to slip through is intercepted quickly within the state.

As part of this initiative, more than 2,291 CCTV cameras have been installed at 585 locations along the border belt, creating a robust surveillance grid across sensitive villages and key transit routes. Additionally, 41 police stations in border districts have been brought under CCTV coverage, strengthening the overall monitoring and response mechanism.

On ground operations have also been intensified, with checkpoints (nakas) becoming more strategic and less predictable. Vehicle checks are now based on real-time intelligence rather than routine procedures.

Anti-drone surveillance has also been significantly enhanced, especially in districts that have witnessed repeated incidents of arms and narcotics being dropped via drones.

SSP Amritsar Rural, Suhail Qasim Mir, stated that the second line of defence plays a crucial role in breaking the chain of crime. “While border sealing remains the first layer, any breach is swiftly intercepted within our jurisdiction. Our nakas are no longer routine checkpoints; they are intelligence-led and strategically positioned based on verified inputs,” he said.

Highlighting the broader strategy, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav emphasized that strengthening the second line is key to Punjab’s anti-gangster operations. “We are building depth in policing. Our focus is on dismantling the entire ecosystem—from cross-border supply to last-mile delivery. The second line ensures that any attempt is detected early and neutralised swiftly,” he added.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH