‘Sophisticated’ cross-border supply chain of arms, narcotics exposed as NIA chargesheets ‘mastermind’
NIA said the ‘mastermind’ played a pivotal role in procuring, transporting, and distributing prohibited firearms, ammunition, and narcotics as part of a network active in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab
Vacuum-sealed packets of hydroponic weed and bags seized by customs officials. (@cbic_india/X via PTI Photo)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a detailed chargesheet against the alleged mastermind of a Pakistan-linked arms and narcotics trafficking network, exposing what they said was a sophisticated cross-border supply chain operating across northern India.
In its chargesheet submitted before the NIA Special Court in Jaipur, the agency identified Vishal Pachar as the principal accused. He was booked under several provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Arms Act, the NDPS Act, and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
According to investigators, Pachar allegedly played a pivotal role in procuring, transporting, and distributing prohibited firearms, ammunition, and narcotics as part of a network active in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab.
Pachar allegedly received direct support from Pakistan-based associates. As per the NIA probe, the operatives allegedly facilitated large-scale smuggling of weapons, ammunition, and heroin into India. The consignments, investigators said, were dropped near border areas using high-powered drones — a method increasingly adopted by cross-border gangs. Members of the network would then retrieve the packages from the Indian side and route them to different states for further distribution.
A press note released by the NIA said investigators also found that the gang actively procured illegal foreign-made weapons to strengthen its arsenal and prepare for potential confrontations with police and other enforcement agencies. The use of encrypted communication platforms, covert messaging applications, and cross-border couriers added another layer of complexity to the smuggling operations.
According to NIA findings, the trafficking network allegedly built a strong nexus between illegal arms suppliers and narcotics traffickers. The syndicate allegedly targeted vulnerable youth by pushing psychotropic substances with the intention of expanding drug dependence and creating broader social instability. The agency noted that the supply of arms and drugs served a dual purpose — financing the gang’s activities and enabling anti-state elements to operate more freely.
The NIA, which took over the probe from the Rajasthan Police earlier this year, said the case reflects a well-orchestrated attempt by Pakistan-based handlers to destabilise regions in northern India through a flow of weapons and narcotics.
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Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and efforts are underway to trace the wider network of facilitators, suppliers, and operatives who may have been involved in the smuggling operations.
Parul Kulshrestha is a Principal Correspondent for The Indian Express, based in Rajasthan. A lawyer turned journalist, she brings a unique cross-disciplinary perspective to her reporting, blending legal precision with deep social inquiry to cover one of India's most culturally and politically vibrant regions.
Expertise and Experience
Legal-Journalistic Synergy: Parul’s transition from a legal background to mainstream journalism provides her with a distinct advantage in interpreting policy, legislation, and judicial impacts. This expertise allows her to "read between the lines" of government orders and court rulings affecting the public.
Diverse Beat: With years of experience across both mainstream newsrooms and independent journalism, she has built high-level authority in several critical areas:
Nomadic Tribes & Marginalized Communities: She is recognized for her sensitive and in-depth reporting on the struggles and rights of Rajasthan's nomadic populations, often giving a voice to those outside the traditional political spotlight.
Gender & Social Justice: Parul focuses on the intersection of law and gender, covering issues ranging from women’s safety and reproductive rights to the socio-economic empowerment of rural women.
Environmental & Political Reporting: She tracks Rajasthan’s complex political landscape—including electoral shifts and bureaucratic changes—alongside critical environmental concerns like water scarcity and land use.
Academic & Professional Pedigree: Her background as a lawyer, combined with her rise to the rank of Principal Correspondent at a national broadsheet, establishes her as a senior voice in the media landscape. ... Read More
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