Encrypted Apps and Drones Facilitate Cross-Border Drug Smuggling into Punjab
Drug trafficking networks from Pakistan are increasingly using encrypted apps, virtual numbers, forged KYC SIM cards, and GPS-enabled drones to smuggle narcotics into Punjab. Since 2021, drone-assisted drug trafficking has risen sharply, with Punjab reporting 298 of 305 nationwide drone-related incidents in 2025, leading to seizures of about 460 kg of drugs including heroin, methamphetamine, and opium. The Centre is enhancing coordination and considering more drone laboratories to counter this threat, which also involves illegal arms and terror financing.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (43/100). Lens Score 65/100.
Outlets measured: thetribune, thetribune. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (38–48/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
thetribune broke this story on 1 Aug, 07:59 pm. Other outlets followed.