New Delhi: The Punjab Police on Friday arrested three people, including a 17-year-old juvenile, after busting a Pakistan-backed terror module linked to Babbar Khalsa International in Amritsar. The module is allegedly supported by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Officials recovered two hand grenades, a 9mm Glock pistol, and live cartridges from the accused.
Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav confirmed that the state’s Special Operation Cell (SSOC) foiled a major terror plot aimed at targeting police establishments and carrying out targeted killings in various parts of Amritsar. “A major plot has been foiled, saving innocent lives,” he said.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Sehajpal Singh and Bikramjeet Singh, both residents of Ramdas in Amritsar Rural. The juvenile has been detained and will be dealt with according to the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.
In a post on X, DGP Yadav wrote, “In an intelligence-led operation, the State Special Operation Cell, Mohali, has successfully busted a Pakistan ISI-backed Babbar Khalsa International terror module, operated by UK-based Nishan Singh and Pakistan-based terrorist Harwinder Rinda. Three associates, including a juvenile, have been arrested.”
He added that the recovery of high-grade explosives and sophisticated firearms indicated a major tragedy was averted.
During preliminary investigation, Sehajpal Singh reportedly confessed to acting under the instructions of Lovepreet Singh, a Babbar Khalsa operative currently lodged in Ferozepur jail.
According to the DGP, the busted module was operated by Nishan Singh, a UK-based handler, along with a Pakistan-based terrorist, Harwinder Singh Rinda. “Recovery of a high-grade explosive and sophisticated firearm indicates that a major tragedy was averted,” he added.
An FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Explosives Act at the SSOC Police Station in Mohali. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are likely, the DGP added. He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and support Punjab Police in their mission to ensure a secure Punjab.
Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), founded in 1920, is one of the oldest and most organised Khalistani terrorist outfits. The group seeks to establish an independent Sikh state, Khalistan.
