The Punjab government has intensified its anti-drug campaign, sending a strong message of zero tolerance by initiating action against police personnel accused of aiding narcotics networks. Under the ongoing “Yudh Nashian Virudh” drive, the Bhagwant Mann-led administration has made it clear that strict consequences will follow for anyone found complicit, regardless of rank or position.
In a significant development, five police personnel in Tarn Taran have been booked for allegedly facilitating the release of an impounded passport belonging to international drug trafficker Shehnaz Singh, also known as Shawn Bhinder. The accused officers reportedly issued a no-objection certificate and submitted a favourable report that enabled the release of the passport, despite the seriousness of the case.
A preliminary inquiry established their involvement, leading to the registration of an FIR. Authorities have indicated that the accused officials are currently absconding, and further investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the lapse and identify any additional links within the system.
Bhinder, who was arrested during a previous anti-drug operation, had his passport seized by the Punjab Police. However, after securing bail from the Punjab and Haryana High Court in October 2025, the release of his passport allegedly allowed him to leave the country. He is now wanted by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation in connection with a major international drug trafficking case involving the movement of narcotics from South America to North America.
Senior police officials have reiterated that the investigation will not be limited to the individuals already named, and that a broader probe is underway to uncover any deeper nexus between law enforcement and drug syndicates. The government has emphasised that this action is part of a wider clean-up effort aimed at dismantling organised drug networks and restoring accountability within the system.
