{
  "id": 3461562,
  "title": "NCB busts cross-border heroin cartel in Jammu; mastermind among 3 arrested with 5.16 kg heroin",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/26/ncb-busts-cross-border-heroin-cartel-in-jammu-mastermind-among-3",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-26T08:08:38.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Hindu",
    "slug": "the-hindu",
    "url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jammu-and-kashmir/ncb-busts-cross-border-heroin-cartel-in-jammu-mastermind-among-3-arrested-with-516-kg-heroin/article71392015.ece"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Jammu has dismantled a significant cross-border heroin trafficking cartel, seizing 5.16 kg of the drug and arresting three individuals, one of whom is suspected to be the mastermind. The operation was prompted by intelligence received on August 22 and involved intercepting a vehicle at Panjtirthi, Jammu, where two occupants, both from north Kashmir's Baramulla district, were found in possession of the heroin. Following this initial seizure, the NCB intensified their efforts, focusing on a third suspect, believed to be the mastermind, from Baramulla. Within two days, the team apprehended him in Leh district of Ladakh. Initial investigations suggest that the seized heroin is part of a larger, organized supply chain, likely originating from Pakistan and entering India through the Uri border sector. The spokesperson emphasized that the NCB aims to dismantle the entire trafficking network, not just individual carriers, and plans to investigate cross-border suppliers, financial links, transporters, local associates, and distribution networks. This operation follows two other heroin seizures by the NCB Jammu this month, totaling 1,141 grams, highlighting the bureau's persistent commitment to intelligence-led anti-narcotics operations in the region. The NCB is currently conducting further investigations to uncover the complete structure of the cartel and its connections. Citizens are encouraged to assist by providing credible information to the National Narcotics Helpline – MANAS (1933), which allows for confidential reporting. The bureau remains dedicated to maintaining a 'Nasha Mukt' Bharat (Drug-Free India).",
  "summary": "The NCB team traced him to Leh district of Ladakh where he was arrested on Monday (August 24), within two days of the seizure",
  "key_points": [
    "NCB dismantles cross-border heroin cartel in Jammu.",
    "Mastermind among three arrested, 5.16 kg heroin seized.",
    "Operation initiated on intelligence received August 22."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}