MIRPUR (Kashmir English): Mirpur Police have successfully dismantled an international drug smuggling network, arresting 10 individuals including the main suspect, Arshad Baloch. Over four kilogrammes of heroin, more than one crore rupees in local and foreign currency, weapons, and several vehicles were seized during the major operation.
Addressing a press briefing on Monday, SSP Mirpur Khawar Ali Shoqat revealed that Arshad Baloch had been operating the international drug smuggling network since 2015. Initially going to the UK as a labourer, Baloch was later involved in heroin smuggling and was charged there in 2013. After being granted bail, he fled back to Pakistan and set up a new network to smuggle heroin to Britain from KP, Azad Kashmir, and Islamabad.
Police investigations show Raja Faisal, Azeem, Nadeem, and Hassan Roop worked with Baloch to transport heroin drugs through international courier deliveries. Several legal complaints existed against them throughout different police stations within Mirpur.
Police intensified surveillance on the entire network starting in September 2024. During November 2024 Junaid and Waqar were caught at Dhangli Dadial entry point with heroin which established their direct connection to the international drug smuggling ring. Evidence showed drugs were sent to the UK after receiving approval from Arshad Baloch and his collaborator Ehtesham Raja.
Further intelligence-led operations led to more arrests and seizures in the operation against international drug smuggling networks. In April 2025, Amar, another key figure, was arrested with heroin intended for delivery in Islamabad. His confession further exposed the wide reach of the international drug smuggling network, spanning Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.
The police also seized a substantial amount of currency and weapons during raids. From the residences of suspects Khan Waheed and Tauqeer, authorities recovered Pakistani and foreign currencies, firearms including rifles and pistols, and important documents. Over 77 financial ledgers were also confiscated, recording transactions worth millions of rupees.
The investigation of bank records showed that Baloch had deposited more than six crore rupees into a private account. The authorities collaborate with financial institutions to review over 100 questionable financial moves.
The SSP confirmed that this high-profile case involves links to Britain and that collaboration with British authorities and Interpol is underway. The police and intelligence agencies are committed to tracking down all remaining members of the international drug smuggling network.
SSP Khawar Ali Shoqat emphasised that the Mirpur Police are firmly aligned with the Government of Azad Kashmir’s vision of creating a drug-free state and that strict operations against drug dealers will continue.
