ANTF Kashmir apprehends two Punjab-based drug peddlers, 79 grams of heroin recovered

Srinagar, Feb 24: In a continued and sustained drive against narcotics trafficking, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Kashmir has achieved yet another significant success by apprehending two Punjab-based drug peddlers in separate operations conducted in district Srinagar and district Budgam, leading to the recovery of 79 grams of heroin.

According to the statement, in the first operation, acting on credible and specific intelligence, ANTF Kashmir apprehended one Punjab-based drug peddler namely Ajay Kumar, son of Joginder, resident of Village Mustafabad Jattan Gurdaspur Punjab from the Gangbugh area of district Srinagar. During the search, 42 grams of heroin were recovered from his possession. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused had procured the contraband substance from Punjab and intended to distribute the same in the Gangbugh area.

In this regard, FIR No. 02/2026 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station ANTF Kashmir.

In another successful operation, ANTF Kashmir apprehended another Punjab-based drug peddler namely Jhon Masih, son of Balwinder Masih, resident of Mustafabad Jatin Gurdaspur Punjab in district Budgam and recovered 37 grams of heroin from his possession. Consequently, FIR No. 03/2026 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station ANTF Kashmir.

Both operations were carried out based on specific intelligence inputs developed by ANTF Kashmir regarding the involvement of the accused persons in inter-state narcotics trafficking. The accused individuals have been taken into custody. Further investigation is underway to uncover the forward and backward linkages of the drug supply chain and to identify other individuals involved in the illicit trade.

The Anti-Narcotics Task Force, J&K reiterated its firm commitment to intensify its crackdown against drug smuggling and dismantle the networks operating behind the narcotics trade. ANTF J&K remained resolute in its mission to eradicate the menace of drugs from society.

The general public is urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and share any credible information related to drug trafficking to help safeguard the youth and ensure a drug-free Jammu & Kashmir, the statement reads.