Anti-Drug Operations – Punjab Police Expands High-Tech Intelligence Network
Anti-Drug Operations – Punjab Police has strengthened its anti-drug enforcement framework with the launch of several advanced technical and intelligence facilities at the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Police Station in SAS Nagar. The newly introduced infrastructure is expected to improve investigations, intelligence gathering, surveillance capabilities, and coordination among law enforcement agencies working to combat drug-related crimes across the state.
New Facilities Strengthen Investigation Capabilities
On Tuesday, Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav inaugurated the newly established Special Intelligence and Technical Unit (SITU), a modern facility designed to support intelligence-led operations and technology-based investigations. Alongside this unit, officials also opened a dedicated Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) room, an interrogation room, an MHC room, and the office of the Deputy Superintendent of Police at the ANTF Police Station.
Senior officers, including Special DGP ANTF Kuldeep Singh and ADGP ANTF Nilabh Kishore, were present during the inauguration ceremony.
SAS Nagar Centre Emerging as Key Anti-Narcotics Hub
The ANTF Police Station building in SAS Nagar, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in August 2024, has evolved into a specialized centre for intelligence and investigation activities. The facility now serves as a major operational base for anti-narcotics efforts in Punjab, supporting investigations and enforcement actions across different regions.
According to officials, the latest additions will significantly improve the ability of investigators to analyse digital evidence, access criminal databases, conduct technical surveillance, and gather actionable intelligence related to narcotics offences.
Expansion of ANTF Infrastructure Across Punjab
Punjab Police is also expanding similar infrastructure in other districts. DGP Gaurav Yadav stated that modern ANTF office complexes are already functioning in Patiala, Jalandhar, and Bathinda. Construction work on new facilities is currently underway in Ludhiana and Ferozepur.
Meanwhile, preparations for establishing a dedicated ANTF facility in Amritsar are progressing, with land and space requirements already finalised. The expansion is part of a broader strategy to create a statewide network capable of supporting advanced anti-drug operations.
Significant Investment in Technology and Surveillance
The Punjab government has committed substantial financial resources to strengthen the ANTF’s technological capabilities. Officials said that ₹11.50 crore was allocated during both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 financial years to modernise surveillance systems, communication networks, cyber intelligence resources, and digital investigation tools at ANTF headquarters and regional offices.
In addition, another ₹14.16 crore has been earmarked to further improve the organisation’s technical infrastructure and operational effectiveness. The investment is aimed at creating a more efficient and technology-driven enforcement system capable of addressing evolving challenges posed by drug trafficking networks.
ANTF Assigned Key Coordination Role
DGP Yadav also announced that ANTF Punjab has been designated as the State NCORD Secretariat under the Narco Coordination Centre framework. With this responsibility, the agency will function as the primary coordination body for information sharing, inter-departmental collaboration, and monitoring of anti-drug initiatives across Punjab.
The move is expected to improve communication between enforcement agencies and government departments involved in tackling narcotics-related issues.
Commitment to a Drug-Free Punjab
Reaffirming the police department’s long-term objective, DGP Yadav said Punjab Police remains focused on dismantling drug trafficking networks and disrupting supply chains through intelligence-based policing and modern investigative methods. He emphasized that strengthening technical capabilities and coordination mechanisms will play a vital role in achieving the state’s goal of reducing narcotics-related crime and creating a safer environment for residents.