Chandigarh, Jan 24: A specialized cell has been established by the Punjab Police to track and extradite dozens of gangsters currently managing criminal enterprises from foreign countries. The Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell was announced shortly after a comprehensive enforcement drive led to the recovery of illegal arms and significant drug hauls across several districts.
The recent enforcement actions have focused on 61 specific individuals who use international bases to direct associates within the state. According to official data, the United States, UAE, and Canada are the primary hubs for these operations, though the network extends to Europe and Southeast Asia. The Anti Gangster Task Force has been mapping these connections to better understand how safe houses and financial channels are maintained.
The state police force deployed thousands of officers to conduct simultaneous searches, resulting in the apprehension of thousands of suspects connected to these global syndicates. Beyond the arrests, the operation targeted the immediate resources of the gangs, resulting in the confiscation of nearly 70 firearms and various quantities of opium and heroin.
“The unit will be headed by DIG Ashish Choudhary, who was recently repatriated from the National Investigation Agency,” DGP Gaurav Yadav said regarding the new extradition cell. This strategic move is intended to enhance the state’s ability to coordinate with central agencies and foreign governments.
The police report detailed that the arrests included family members and supporters who provided local assistance to the foreign based kingpins. Among those identified as hiding abroad are high profile figures such as Goldy Brar and Lucky Patial. Authorities stated that of the total individuals processed during the campaign, 25 were taken into preventive custody while others faced formal charges for their involvement in organized crime and smuggling.
