Major Breakthrough: Arrest of Narco-Terrorist Iqbal Singh

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has succeeded in apprehending the wanted narco-terrorist Iqbal Singh, also known as Shera, after his extradition from Portugal. He was detained by an NIA team upon his arrival at Delhi airport, marking a significant success in the agency's campaign against Pakistan-supported narco-terrorism and cross-border terrorist activities.

According to NIA officials, Shera played a pivotal role as a handler and planner for an India-based narco-terror network. This network was deeply involved in smuggling heroin from Pakistan into Punjab. The agency indicated that he was instrumental in coordinating the distribution of smuggled drugs and managing the finances through hawala channels to support operatives associated with the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorist group.

Shera had been on the run since 2020, with a non-bailable warrant and an Interpol notice for his arrest. His arrest comes after the NIA's sustained efforts. A Delhi court has granted the NIA a two-day transit remand to transport Shera to Punjab, where legal proceedings will continue. The investigation by the NIA has focused on disrupting the network and preventing the flow of narcotics and funds supporting terrorism.

(With inputs from agencies.)