NIA Intensifies Crackdown on Cross-Border Weapon Smuggling Network

On Friday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched a sweeping operation, conducting searches at 12 sites in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Maharashtra. This action is part of their investigation into a cross-border weapon smuggling case, indicating a significant move to dismantle a suspected terror network with ties reaching beyond India's borders.

The searches were based on specific inputs and are continuing across multiple locations, including five in Uttar Pradesh, three in Maharashtra, and two each in Bihar and Rajasthan. These locations are reportedly linked to individuals supporting Pakistani operative Jasvir Chaudhary. Chaudhary, along with his Indian counterparts, allegedly planned bomb attacks across Punjab, Delhi, and other regions.

This case, initially registered by Punjab Police, highlights severe security concerns due to its purported international connections. It was transferred to the NIA on March 21 for a thorough probe. Earlier this year, Punjab Police's State Special Operations Cell received credible intelligence about a consignment of arms and IEDs smuggled via drone by Chaudhary's associates, intending to orchestrate blasts in various parts of India.

The use of drones introduces a sophisticated element to cross-border smuggling, complicating detection efforts. Authorities believe the cache was meant for coordinated attacks designed to inflict widespread chaos. The NIA's ongoing operation in four states is pivotal in exposing the terror network's full reach, including possible sleeper cells poised to execute these attacks. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)