Chandigarh, June 18 (IANS) In a crackdown on drug trafficking networks, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Chandigarh Zonal Unit and Chandigarh Police, conducted a joint operation in the Tricity and unearthed a Pakistan-linked module operating in Kharar, Punjab and arrested two persons, including a woman, an official said on Thursday.

The operation on June 12 commenced with the interception and search of a vehicle being used by an individual who is a practicing advocate. During the search of the vehicle, NCB officers recovered 93 grams of Methamphetamine (Ice) and 10 grams of Heroin.

Follow-up searches at a flat located in Kharar, Punjab, where an additional 700 grams of Methamphetamine and 250 grams of Poppy Straw were recovered, leading to a total seizure of 793 grams of Methamphetamine, 10 grams of Heroin and 250 grams of Poppy Straw, said NCB in a statement.

A lady who was residing along with the accused was also detained and later arrested for facilitating and actively assisting in the commission of the offence.

Notably, the quantity of Methamphetamine recovered is approximately sixteen times the notified commercial quantity under the NDPS Act.

Verification conducted during the investigation has further revealed that the accused was previously booked in FIR No. 476 dated December 25, 2023, registered at Police Station Sector-36, Chandigarh.

Investigation carried out so far has revealed the existence of a well-organized and sophisticated drug trafficking network with links to a Pakistan-based drug syndicate, said the statement.

The NCB urges citizens to support the fight against drug trafficking. Anyone can share information related to drug trafficking by calling the MANAS-National Narcotics Helpline (Toll-Free Number 1933). The identities of informers are kept strictly confidential, the statement said.

Earlier, the NCB destroyed seized narcotic drugs valued at Rs 236 crore in Dehradun, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to a drug-free India.

A total of 303 kg of seized narcotic drugs, including Tramadol tablets, Alprazolam tablets & Charas linked to 11 pre-trial & post-trial cases were destroyed, said the NCB on Wednesday.

–IANS

rch/dan