ED arrests Baneet Talwar in connection with 2021 Mundra drug seizure

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Baneet Singh Talwar in connection with an ongoing investigation into a large-scale drug smuggling network, officials said on Tuesday. The arrest stems from a probe linked to the 2021 Mundra port seizure, one of India's largest heroin hauls in recent years.

Talwar is the brother of Kabir Talwar, who has been identified as a key accused in the smuggling operation. The 2021 seizure at Mundra port in Gujarat resulted in the confiscation of approximately 3,000 kg of Afghan heroin, valued at an estimated ₹21,000 crore. The contraband was discovered during routine port inspections and triggered a multi-agency investigation.

The ED, which investigates financial crimes and money laundering, has been tracing the financial trails and proceeds linked to the drug operation. The arrest of Baneet Singh Talwar represents a significant development in the agency's efforts to dismantle the smuggling network and identify individuals involved in the trafficking and distribution of narcotics.

The investigation has revealed complex networks operating across multiple states and international borders, authorities said. Further questioning of Talwar is expected to provide additional leads in the case. Interrogation of the accused is ongoing to establish his specific role in the drug smuggling conspiracy.