Gurdaspur prisoner pulls Pak drone strings
In a development that has surprised even senior security officers, the police have identified an inmate lodged in the Gurdaspur Central Jail who was allegedly found controlling the activities of drones bringing drugs and weapons from Pakistan.
Confirming the development, Gurdaspur SSP Aditya said, “A jail inmate has been found to be involved in a recent drone-related activity in the area falling under the jurisdiction of the Dorangla police station, near the international border. We have informed the jail authorities and will be taking him on police remand tomorrow. I can’t divulge much details as investigations are underway.”
He said the matter was being kept confidential due to its sensitive nature and revealing the inmate’s name could hamper the investigation.
The SSP disclosed that three individuals — Balwinder Singh, Kuldeep Singh and a minor — had already been arrested. The minor’s identity had not been revealed, but he was believed to be the kingpin, who had used various social media platforms to facilitate heroin smuggling.
A month ago, the Gurdaspur police recovered 2 kg of heroin, two pistols, four magazines and 66 rounds of ammunition from a location in Dorangla. “We began investigations and yesterday apprehended Balwinder Singh, Kuldeep Singh and the minor in connection with that case. During the operation, 255 gm of heroin was also seized. After sustained questioning, they revealed the inmate’s involvement. All three regularly met him in jail, where plans were coordinated. Recent drone sorties from Pakistan were controlled by all four of them,” the SSP explained.
Dorangla has become a hotspot for drone activity, whether involving heroin or arms and ammunition. Sources indicate that just across the border, barely a few kms away, Pakistani state and non-state actors have established a base from which drones are flown over the fencing into Dorangla. The accused usually have prior knowledge of consignment details, including drop times and locations.
Punjab