ED searches 9 locations in Punjab, J-K in narco-terror funding probe

📌 Summary:

• Enforcement Directorate (ED) searched 9 locations in Punjab and J&K, including sites near the Line of Control (LoC), in an alleged narco-terror funding case
• Probe revealed a "well-organised and multi-layered" network with Punjab-based handlers (Satnam Singh, Manjit Singh alias Maan) and Kupwara-based operatives (Safeer & Kafeel Ahmed)
• Heroin consignments allegedly smuggled from Pakistan via Pakistan-based handlers linked to terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, routed through the Amrohi border and LoC-adjoining areas
• Punjab network used forged documents, fake vehicle papers, concealed cavities and cash transactions to move and distribute heroin
• Over 60 kg of heroin cumulatively moved from Kashmir to Punjab; proceeds allegedly used to fund terror activities
• ED traced banking transactions including high-value cash deposits in accounts linked to the accused; searches targeted source-side logistics and local facilitators of the cross-border narcotics chain

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 Internal Security — the narco-terror nexus and terror-financing (money laundering) links illustrate how drug trafficking finances militancy across the western border

🔑 Key Term: Narco-terrorism — the use of drug-trafficking proceeds to fund terrorist activities, combining organised crime with cross-border terror financing