Ludhiana: In a targeted operation against inter-state narcotics trafficking, the Ludhiana police have intercepted a commercial truck and seized 5.6 kg of opium along with 30 kg of poppy husk. While the driver was apprehended on the spot, the police have also booked the truck owner and his nephew for their alleged involvement in the smuggling syndicate. The recovery was made during a routine check by the Moti Nagar police, highlighting the continued use of transport routes for the transit of contraband from central India.The arrested individual has been identified as Jagmel Singh, a resident of Balada village in Samrala. However, the truck owner, Taranpreet Singh of Village Tibba, and his nephew, Happy, remain at large. Deputy commissioner of police (DCP Rural) Jaskiranjit Singh Teja stated that the vehicle was intercepted near Mohan Dai Cancer Hospital. At first glance, the truck appeared to be transporting a harmless load of empty plastic bottles. However, a thorough frisking of the cargo revealed a polythene bag containing opium and a gunny bag stuffed with poppy husk, both meticulously concealed beneath the layers of plastic bottles.Contraband sourced from Madhya Pradesh: CopsDuring interrogation, Jagmel Singh disclosed the logistics of the illicit journey. He revealed that he had departed from Ludhiana on February 17 with a consignment of bicycles destined for Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh. After unloading the cycles, he picked up a load of empty plastic bottles for his return trip. It was during this return leg that he allegedly procured the opium and poppy husk from Mansaur, Madhya Pradesh. Jagmel confessed to the police that the procurement was facilitated by Taranpreet and Happy, who provided the necessary support for the operation.Investigations suggest that while the absconding duo has been involved in the illegal drug trade for some time, the driver, Jagmel, joined their ranks only a few months ago. A case has been registered against all three individuals at the Moti Nagar police station under the relevant sections of the NDPS Act. Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with dedicated teams working to track down and arrest the remaining two suspects.
