Shimla. Himachal Pradesh is preparing to expand the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics in police investigations to dismantle networks involved in the trafficking of chitta and other narcotic substances. The National Anti-Narcotics Task Force (NTF) has encouraged states to combine traditional investigative methods with modern technology. Under the proposed approach, digital, financial and other evidence collected from different cases will be analysed to identify possible links within drug trafficking networks.
The objective is to ensure that investigations do not remain limited to the recovery of narcotics from an accused person and their subsequent arrest. Through technological analysis, investigators will attempt to trace people who may allegedly be involved in supply, transportation, financial transactions and other parts of a trafficking network. Mobile numbers, contact details, vehicle movements, bank accounts and digital activities appearing in separate cases will be examined for possible connections.
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Investigating agencies often have access to large volumes of digital data. AI-based analysis can help identify recurring contacts, similar transactions and suspicious patterns within this information. Mobile phones, computers and other electronic devices recovered from arrested suspects are expected to form an important part of this process.
Through digital forensics, call logs, digital communications and other electronic evidence will be examined in accordance with legal procedures. Investigators will compare this information with evidence gathered in other cases to understand whether suspects maintained continuing contact and how extensive an alleged trafficking network may be.
With concerns over the possible use of hidden parts of the internet and social media for the online purchase and sale of narcotics, dark web monitoring will also receive particular attention. Investigators will look for online activity that may provide leads about possible drug supply or trafficking networks.
Data analysis will also be used to establish links between inter-district and inter-state networks. A shared database of NDPS cases registered in different districts of Himachal Pradesh could allow investigators to conduct joint analysis. Based on similarities in mobile contacts, financial transactions and other evidence, possible links between cases registered in Shimla, Kangra, Kullu, Solan and Una will be examined.
The investigation could also extend beyond Himachal Pradesh. Data relating to cases and suspicious contacts connected with Punjab, Haryana and Delhi may be analysed to determine the extent to which drug networks operating in the state may have links with other states. Linking cases registered in different jurisdictions could help investigators develop a broader picture of the alleged network.
The use of technology, however, will not replace the requirement for legally admissible evidence. Leads generated through AI will not by themselves be treated as conclusive proof of a crime. Independent investigation, verification and evidence admissible before a court will remain necessary before legal action is taken. AI will therefore be used as a tool to guide investigations and identify possible connections, while final action will continue to be based on established legal procedures.
According to the police, data analytics will be used to combine information obtained from multiple sources and identify possible supply networks. This could help investigators trace connections that might otherwise appear as separate elements across different cases. A combined analysis of mobile contacts, banking activity, digital communications and other evidence could help reveal the structure of alleged trafficking networks.
The move toward more data-driven investigations comes as drug trafficking cases can involve links across multiple districts and states. By bringing case records and digital evidence into a common analytical framework, investigators are preparing to use technology to trace potential links from suppliers to wider alleged syndicates while keeping verification and legally valid evidence at the centre of the investigation.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
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