Tarn Taran: Border Security Force (BSF) personnel shot dead an unidentified Pakistani intruder who attempted to smuggle heroin across the international border in Punjab’s Tarn Taran district late Monday night.
The incident took place in the border area of Khemkaran between border outposts Kalia and Noorwala, where troops of the 142nd battalion of the BSF intercepted the infiltration attempt.
According to officials, the intruder was trying to cross into Indian territory with a consignment of heroin when BSF personnel opened fire, killing him on the spot. Some suspicious items were also recovered from the spot.
Security sources said a few other Pakistani smugglers who were accompanying the intruder managed to retreat back across the border during the exchange of fire.
Police from Valtoha police station have registered a case and taken the body into custody. The body has been sent to Civil Hospital, Patti, for post-mortem examination. BSF and police teams have launched a joint investigation into the incident.
Smuggling attempts under close watch
Officials said incidents of heroin smuggling from across the border, including through drones, have increased in recent months. A few days ago, a Pakistani national was also arrested with heroin near the same border belt.
Border sources said smugglers often attempt to push heroin consignments into India before the wheat harvesting season to maximise distribution within the country.
BSF officials said troops remain on high alert and security along the border has been strengthened to prevent any cross-border smuggling attempts.
