Crackdown on cross-border arms smuggling in Amritsar: 8 accused arrested, 11 sophisticated pistols seized

June 18, 2026

The Punjab Police has achieved a major breakthrough against illegal arms smuggling. The Amritsar Commissionerate Police busted a cross-border illegal arms smuggling module and arrested eight accused individuals. During the operation, the police recovered 11 sophisticated pistols and 8 live cartridges.

Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav shared details of the operation on his X (formerly Twitter) handle. He stated that the preliminary investigation revealed the arrested accused were in contact with operatives based abroad who are involved in the supply of illegal weapons.

In a major breakthrough, Amritsar Commissionerate Police busts a cross-border illegal arms smuggling module, apprehends eight accused, and recovers 11 sophisticated pistols and 08 live cartridges.

Preliminary investigation reveals that the accused were allegedly in contact with… pic.twitter.com/OHvJAQuFqt

— DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) June 18, 2026

Attempt to Fuel Criminal Activities

According to the police, a conspiracy had been hatched to deliver the recovered weapons to criminal elements. These arms were intended for use in extortion, carrying out violent acts, and other illegal activities. Preliminary investigations suggest that the network was attempting to fuel criminal activities in Punjab by smuggling weapons from across the border.

Separate FIRs Registered

Separate FIRs have been registered at the Airport, Sadar, and Chheharta police stations in Amritsar regarding the matter. The police are now tracing the backward and forward linkages of this network to identify other members and associates. Additionally, an investigation is underway to determine how many other weapons may have been brought into Punjab through this gang.

Action Under Zero-Tolerance Policy

The Punjab Police stated that its crackdown on illegal arms smuggling, cross-border trafficking, and organized crime will continue unabated. The police reiterated that strict action is being taken against crime and gangster networks in the state under a zero-tolerance policy. The police investigation is currently ongoing.