Amritsar, 24 July (H.S.): The Jalandhar Range of the Punjab Police’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force has arrested an alleged drug smuggler and recovered 1.536 kg of heroin from his possession.

The accused has been identified as Amandeep Sharma, alias Don resident of Gali Number 9, Azad Nagar, Chheharta, Amritsar. A Hero Destini scooter was also seized.

ANTF Jalandhar Range DIG Vatsala Gupta said the operation was carried out under the supervision of ADGP, ANTF Punjab, Nilabh Kishore and DSP Bikramjit Singh.

Acting on specific information, an ANTF team set up a checkpoint at an open space opposite the electricity grid, beyond India Gate on the Amritsar Bypass. During the operation, the team intercepted and arrested Amandeep Sharma.

Following the recovery of heroin from his scooter, a case was registered by ASI Manjit Singh at the ANTF police station in SAS Nagar, Mohali. Further investigation is underway.

During preliminary questioning, the accused reportedly told police that he had studied up to Class 10 and was involved in the garment business. Police said he allegedly entered the heroin trade in an attempt to become rich quickly and fund an expensive lifestyle. The ANTF is now questioning the accused to identify the source of the heroin, its intended recipients and other persons linked to the drug supply network.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH