Breaking News: Heroin Seizure Foils Cross-Border Smuggling Attempt in Bikaner
In a major breakthrough ahead of India’s 77th Independence Day celebrations, the Rajasthan Police have foiled an alleged cross-border smuggling attempt involving narcotics and sophisticated firearms. The operation, code-named “Operation Shock Wave,” was carried out under the supervision of Bikaner Range IG Omprakash and SP Mridul Kachhawa.
Heroin Worth Rs 50 Crore Seized
The police seized around 10 kg of Afghan-origin heroin valued at approximately Rs 50 crore, along with 11 foreign-made pistols, 22 magazines, 100 live cartridges, and a motorcycle near the India-Pakistan international border in Bikaner’s Khajuwala area. The heroin, marked ‘999 Afghan,’ is estimated to have an international market value of nearly Rs 50 crore, based on an approximate value of Rs 5 crore per kilogram.
Sophisticated Firearms Recovered
The seizure includes 2 Turkish-made Zigana pistols, 4 Glock pistols, and 5 Star-marked .30 bore pistols. The recovery of these sophisticated firearms highlights the gravity of the cross-border smuggling attempt. The police have also recovered 22 magazines and 100 live cartridges, which are believed to have been intended for further distribution.
Accused Arrested and Preliminary Interrogation
One accused, identified as Virendra, has been arrested in connection with the case. During preliminary interrogation, he allegedly revealed that the consignment had been dropped by a drone from across the Pakistan border and that he had arrived to collect and transport it for further distribution. The police have also identified several other individuals linked to the smuggling network during the investigation.
Security Measures Intensified Ahead of Independence Day Celebrations
Bikaner is set to host this year’s state-level Independence Day celebrations on August 15, with Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma scheduled to hoist the national flag. In view of the high-profile ceremony, security arrangements across the city have been intensified, with authorities maintaining heightened vigilance. The police operation has been seen as a significant security measure to ensure a safe and secure environment for the celebrations.
Operation Shock Wave: A Major Security Success
Senior police officials have hailed the operation as a major success in thwarting a cross-border conspiracy targeting Rajasthan. The District Special Team (DST) and Khajuwala Police carried out a joint raid on the Chak 6 BD Road near the 32 Head area under the Khajuwala police station limits. The accused was intercepted while riding a motorcycle, and police recovered the narcotics and weapons from his possession.
Investigation Ongoing, Further Arrests Expected
The police investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are expected as the network is traced. Intelligence agencies had alerted police about a possible attempt to smuggle narcotics and weapons into India through drones ahead of the August 15 Independence Day celebrations. Based on these inputs, Bikaner Police launched Operation Shock Wave, which has resulted in a major breakthrough in the fight against cross-border smuggling.