The police investigation, relied upon by the ED to frame the case, found Kandola allegedly supplied drugs to various locations in Punjab, Delhi, and other major cities nationwide.

Two persons, said to be working for  two drug smugglers based abroad, were arrested and ₹1crore cash recovered from them, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav has said.

A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Arms Act, it said.

Drunk driving is a major factor in road accidents and the Punjab Police will take strict action against individuals found driving under the influence of alcohol, he said.

The DGP said further investigations are going on to establish linkages in this case. 

The male detainees are currently held in Nabha Jail, Patiala, while the female detainees are in Ropar District Jail.

Punjab Police launched a targeted operation on Thursday, raiding the hideouts of 246 significant drug smugglers who are currently out on bail. These individuals, known as "big fish," were caught with 2 kg or more of contraband substances. This initiative is part of the police force's ongoing efforts to combat the drug menace in the state.

Punjab Police, on Wednesday, carried out raids at the top 10 drug hotspots in each district of the state.

The AAP, Congress, SAD, BJP, BSP, and the SAD (Amritsar) are contesting in all the constituencies of Punjab. However, the Congress and the AAP have allied in Chandigarh. 

The tourist bus was carrying pilgrims, hailing from Indore in Madhya Pradesh, and it was on its way to Amritsar after visiting Haridwar, police said. 

The operation was conducted on the basis of information received a day ago by BSF and coordinated efforts by Punjab Police, confirmed officials.

While two others, identified as Yash Rathi and Adarsh Tripathi, suffered injuries and were discharged from the hospital after treatment, the SP said.