In a shocking turn of events, a former National Security Guard (NSG) commando who once stood on the frontlines of India’s fight against terrorism during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks has been arrested for running a massive interstate drug smuggling operation.
Bajrang Singh, a resident of Sikar district in Rajasthan, was apprehended late Wednesday night from Ratangarh in Churu by a joint team of the Rajasthan Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF). The operation, codenamed ‘Operation Gaanjaney’, culminated in the seizure of nearly 200 kg of cannabis (‘ganja’). Singh, who carried a bounty of ₹25,000, was allegedly trafficking narcotics from Telangana and Odisha into Rajasthan.
Two-Month Manhunt Ends in Arrest
The breakthrough came after investigators tracked a unique pattern in Singh’s movements he was always accompanied by a trusted cook from Odisha. By tracing the cook’s family connections, authorities were able to pinpoint Singh’s hideout, leading to his dramatic arrest.
Inspector General of Police Vikas Kumar confirmed that Singh’s capture is expected to significantly disrupt the large-scale drug trade network that had been supplying narcotics across state lines.
From Elite Commando to Criminal Kingpin
Bajrang Singh’s fall from grace is as dramatic as it is tragic. Having joined the NSG after completing his Class 10, he was part of the elite counter-terror team that responded to the deadly 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008. However, after his retirement in 2021, Singh’s life took a darker turn. Following a failed attempt at entering politics, he allegedly turned to the lucrative world of narcotics trafficking, quickly rising through the ranks to become a major player in the trade.
Authorities believe his arrest will deal a heavy blow to the illegal drug routes operating between Odisha, Telangana, and Rajasthan a network that has been fueling the region’s narcotics market for years.
What was once a tale of bravery and service has now become a cautionary story of how a decorated soldier fell from national hero to criminal mastermind.
