Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Dismissed Punjab Police officer Rajjit Singh Hundal has been arrested in Patiala after surrendering to the police, bringing an end to his prolonged period as a fugitive in cases connected with alleged drug trafficking, extortion and corruption.
Singh, who had served as an Assistant Inspector General (AIG), was taken into custody by an Anti-Narcotics Task Force team, with Punjab Police confirming the arrest on Thursday. (The New Indian Express)
His legal troubles stem from investigations into the alleged links between sections of the police force and drug-related activities in Punjab. Singh was named in cases involving allegations of protecting accused drug offenders, manipulating investigations and extortion.
The former officer had remained away from investigators for several years. His surrender followed a recent development before the Supreme Court, where his counsel indicated that he was willing to give himself up. The court subsequently directed him to surrender while his legal proceedings continued. (Hindustan Times)
Cases dating back to drug network investigation
Singh’s name emerged during investigations involving dismissed police inspector Inderjit Singh, whose alleged involvement in drug trafficking and extortion had triggered a wider probe into possible links within the police department.
Investigations conducted following directions of the Punjab and Haryana High Court examined Singh’s alleged association with Inderjit Singh. Subsequent departmental proceedings resulted in his dismissal from service. (The Indian Express)
Several criminal cases were also registered against him. These include proceedings involving alleged offences under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, corruption-related provisions and allegations of extortion and manipulation of official records. (The New Indian Express)
A separate vigilance case concerned allegations relating to assets and alleged financial irregularities.
Arrest follows surrender
Singh had previously been declared a proclaimed offender after failing to appear before the authorities. Investigating agencies had continued efforts to locate him during his absence.
His decision to surrender now allows the police investigation and related court proceedings to move forward with him in custody.
The arrest also comes as Punjab continues to face political debate over its efforts to tackle the state’s longstanding drug problem. However, the legal proceedings against Singh will be determined through the appropriate judicial process.
Further details regarding his questioning, the cases in which he has been arrested and his next court appearance are expected to emerge as proceedings continue.
