Jammu, Oct 06: Jammu and Kashmir Police have busted a suspected Pakistan-backed drone-dropping module in the Arnia sector and arrested four persons in connection with the recovery of narcotics, a pistol and ammunition, officials said on Tuesday.
Officials said the breakthrough came after police intercepted two men travelling on a motorcycle during a naka at Tamala Bridge in Arnia on October 3.
Police recovered a silver-coloured Beretta-type pistol, two magazines and four live rounds from Rahul Kumar of Trewa. They also seized 264 grams of a heroin-like substance along with packing material from his possession, they said.
Another accused, Ajay Kumar alias Rabb of Talhar, Arnia, was found carrying 276 grams of a heroin-like substance, including packing material.
Following the recovery, police registered FIR No. 64/2026 under Sections 8, 21, 22 and 29 of the NDPS Act and Sections 3/25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Arnia and launched an investigation.
During sustained questioning, police arrested another accused, Ajay Kumar alias Sam, and recovered 464 grams of opium resin and 13.3 grams of heroin from his possession.
Further investigation led to the arrest of Jaganpreet Randhawa alias Jaggi from Punjab, who is suspected to be a forward link in the network.
According to officials, the investigation revealed that the accused had received two consignments through drone drops and were in contact with Pakistan-based handlers.
Police said the recovered narcotics, arms and ammunition are being examined as part of the probe, while efforts are underway to trace the source of the consignments and identify others linked to the network.
Further investigation is in progress to establish the full extent of the nexus, including the role of Pakistan-based handlers and other associates, officials added—(KNO)
