The Punjab Police’s Counter Intelligence have arrested an army-deserter and recovered 12.5 kg heroin with Pakistan markings on it, officials said on Sunday.

The arrested person was identified as Amritpal Singh Bath alias Fauji.

He is a resident of Kasel village in Tarn Taran district.

Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav told X: "Big Blow to Trans Border narcotic network: Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar busts a smuggling cartel with the arrest of Amritpal Singh @ Fauji, an army-deserter resident of village Kasel,Tarn Taran and recovered 12.5 kg Heroin with #Pak markings."

"Fauji was wanted by J&K Police in a 38 Kg Heroin case. Cartel's international links exposed, being led by Amritpal Sing Bath, a notorious smuggler operating from #Dubai," he said.

He said the Punjab Police is committed to dismantle the drug networks and make the north Indian state drug-free.