The Border Security Force (BSF) seized 27 kg heroin, valued at Rs.135 crore in the international market, near the India-Pakistan border in Punjab on Thursday.

Facing fire from smugglers early morning at Rajatal in Amritsar, troops fired 10 rounds in self defence but the criminals managed to flee towards Pakistan territory, taking advantage of proximity to the international border, according to the BSF.

The troops later recovered the narcotics contained in bags.

BSF officials said this is one of the biggest contraband seizures in a single day during the last decade.

In another incident in Ferozpur in Punjab, a special 'naka' (border post) by the BSF led to recovery of a Chinese-make pistol and 20 rounds of ammunition.

Keeping in mind the vulnerability of the border areas where standing crops provide a natural cover to the smugglers, the BSF field units had enhanced their vigil.

The security force on Tuesday recovered over 15 kg heroin in Amritsar along the international border.