Four drug overdose deaths in Tarn Taran this month have exposed how Pakistani smugglers exploit the swollen Ravi and Sutlej rivers to push narcotics into Punjab. Despite heavy flooding in Pakistan and India, smuggling continues with boats, tyre tubes, and even plastic bottles. The focus key phrase drug overdose deaths in Tarn Taran highlights the growing crisis.
Security agencies reported multiple seizures. In Fazilka, the Border Security Force (BSF) intercepted the first reported delivery of weapons by boat. From Mohar Jamsher village, 27 pistols and 470 cartridges were seized, followed by another consignment of 16 pistols and nearly 1,850 cartridges. Investigations revealed smugglers received ₹20,000–₹30,000 per pistol.
Flooding widened river spans, enabling smugglers to swim across with consignments weighing up to 70 kg. Police recently seized 20 kg of contraband smuggled through tyre tubes. An intercepted audio recording revealed Pakistani handlers discussing narcotics and drone-based weapon deliveries.
This month’s overdose victims include Nishan Singh (27), brothers Malkiat Singh and Gurpreet Singh, and Nishan Singh (24). In response, Punjab Police raided 359 locations, arrested 86 people, and seized large quantities of heroin, opium, and poppy husk. The link between smuggling and drug overdose deaths in Tarn Taran is alarming and demands urgent action.
