Daijiworld Media Network - Chandigarh
Chandigarh, Jul 26: Punjab police have foiled a major terror conspiracy by busting an alleged ISI-backed Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) module and arresting its key operative from Jalandhar, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said on Sunday.
The arrested suspect has been identified as Satbir Singh, a resident of Padiana village in Adampur, Jalandhar district. Police also seized the motorcycle he was riding at the time of his arrest.
According to the DGP, the joint operation was carried out by Counter Intelligence (CI) Jalandhar and Jalandhar Rural Police following specific intelligence inputs about the movement of explosives allegedly procured on the instructions of foreign-based handlers.
During the operation, police intercepted Satbir Singh near Dhandaur village and recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) concealed in a bag.
The seized IED contained 1.3 kg of high explosive, along with shrapnel and ball bearings, indicating that it was designed to cause maximum damage in a high-impact attack.
Describing the operation as a significant success, DGP Yadav said the prompt action by the police had prevented a major terror incident and protected innocent lives.
He said intelligence agencies had received credible information that an operative linked to the BKI module had collected a consignment of explosives under the directions of handlers operating from abroad. Acting swiftly, teams from CI Jalandhar and Jalandhar Rural established a checkpoint and successfully intercepted the suspect before any attack could be carried out.
The DGP said investigations are continuing to identify the entire terror network, including the foreign-based masterminds, local associates and logistical support systems allegedly involved in the conspiracy.
An FIR has been registered at Patara Police Station in Jalandhar under Sections 113(1) and 113(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Sections 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act, and Section 25(1B)(a) of the Arms Act. Police said further arrests and recoveries are expected as the investigation progresses.