Punjab Anti-Narcotics Task Force arrests drug inspector in SAS Nagar, freezes assets worth Rs 7.09 crore
PTC Web Desk: In a significant breakthrough, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of the Punjab Police has arrested Shishan Mittal, a drug inspector from SAS Nagar, for his alleged involvement in a drug smuggling network. The accused was aiding operations connected to illegal pharmaceuticals, medical stores, and laundering drug money.
Shishan Mittal was apprehended in Mohali after being repeatedly questioned over the last two weeks for allegedly aiding drug smugglers and facilitating the illegal drug trade involving pharmaceuticals, medical stores, and money laundering.
A police spokesperson said Mittal had been in contact with jailed drug smugglers and was helping to maintain their drug network outside. During the investigation, the ANTF uncovered significant financial irregularities, leading to the freezing of 24 bank accounts containing Rs 7.09 crore. Additionally, two bank lockers were seized, with the authorities recovering Rs 1.49 crore in cash, 260 grams of gold, and foreign currency. Further investigations revealed real estate assets worth Rs 2.40 crore in Zirakpur and Dabwali, which were acquired through illegal means.
Despite being booked under the NDPS Act last month, Mittal had not been arrested or suspended. DGP Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, noted that preliminary investigations indicated Mittal’s regular communication with imprisoned drug traffickers, further facilitating their operations.
Mittal, who had earlier served as Drug Control Officer (DCO) in Muktsar, Fazilka-1, and Fazilka-2, had been on medical leave until August 31. Although he applied for an extension, it was rejected. The state government has since issued his transfer orders, but Mittal had not reported to duty and is now considered absent without notice. The Food and Drugs Administration, Punjab, is awaiting a formal communication from the police to initiate further disciplinary action.
The special task force had previously conducted raids in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, leading to the discovery of Mittal’s extensive assets linked to the drug network.
- PTC NEWS
