New Delhi, August 14: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) seized two properties belonging to accused Anwar Masih in Amritsar on Thursday. This action is part of an investigation into a 500 kg heroin smuggling case, which involves an international narco-terror conspiracy.
The seized properties are located at Plot Numbers 128 and 129 in the first phase of Akash Vihar, Sultanwind, and are registered in Masih’s name. The seizure was conducted under Section 25(1) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 1967. Known as the Salaya drug seizure case, it is linked to the smuggling of 500 kg of heroin from Pakistan to India via sea routes.
According to the NIA, the investigation revealed Masih’s involvement in an international network that spans Italy, Australia, the UAE, Thailand, Iran, and Pakistan. This network was engaged in drug trafficking and distribution, with proceeds being used to finance terrorist activities associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The agency stated that the seized properties were linked to funds related to terrorism, leading to their confiscation under anti-terrorism laws. The seizure operation took place on August 13, in the presence of witnesses and with the assistance of revenue officials. Before affixing the seizure order on the properties, it was read out and a seizure memorandum was prepared. The investigation is ongoing, with 26 accused individuals arrested so far in this case.
Previously, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police had conducted a significant operation against drug and arms trafficking, revealing two major cross-border networks and arresting five suspects. Authorities recovered seven illegal pistols and 2 kg 30 grams of heroin from the accused. Initial police investigations indicated that the arrested suspects were in contact with traffickers based abroad, preparing to supply illegal weapons to areas in Amritsar and Tarn Taran.
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