Punjab Newsline | Firozpur
A Counter Intelligence inspector has been arrested in Punjab’s Firozpur district on charges of drug trafficking after police allegedly recovered 3.35 kg of heroin, six pistols, ammunition and other illegal items from his possession.
The accused has been identified as Baldev Singh (56). Police said they seized 3 kg 350 grams of heroin, six pistols, four magazines, 17 cartridges, an i20 car (PB05AC-6517) and six mobile phones during the operation.
An FIR has been registered against the inspector under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Arms Act. Investigators are now trying to determine the source of the narcotics and weapons, as well as their intended destination.
According to police, officials of Ghall Khurd Police Station received a tip-off that Baldev Singh was travelling in his i20 car carrying a large quantity of drugs and illegal weapons. Acting on the information, police set up a checkpoint near the Firozshah Toll Plaza on the Ferozepur-Moga road late on Friday night.
When the suspect’s vehicle arrived at the checkpoint, police signalled it to stop. Officers said Baldev Singh identified himself as a police inspector and allegedly attempted to use his position to avoid a search.
The Station House Officer (SHO) of Ghall Khurd police station said the personnel on duty proceeded with the inspection despite the accused allegedly trying to exert pressure and threatening action against them.
Following a search of the vehicle, police claimed to have recovered a large quantity of narcotics and illegal weapons. The accused was immediately taken into custody, and the vehicle along with all recovered items was seized.
Police have registered a case under Section 21 of the NDPS Act and Sections 25 and 27 of the Arms Act. Senior police officials said the investigation is ongoing and that the possibility of the accused having links with Pakistan is also being examined. Authorities are questioning the inspector to establish the origin of the recovered contraband and the extent of his alleged involvement in the illegal trade.
