Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): In a major counter-terrorism operation, Punjab Police has dismantled an alleged terror module linked to the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and backed by Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The operation resulted in the arrest of a suspected operative from Jalandhar and the recovery of a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED), officials said on Tuesday.
The operation was jointly conducted by the Counter Intelligence Wing in Jalandhar and the Jalandhar Rural Police, following specific intelligence inputs regarding the activities of a terror network allegedly being managed by handlers based outside India.
During the search operation, police recovered an IED containing around 1.3 kilograms of high-grade explosives. Investigators said the device had been packed with metal fragments and ball bearings, indicating it was designed to cause extensive damage and casualties if detonated in a crowded area.
According to officials, the timely action by the security agencies helped avert a potential terror strike. Preliminary investigations suggest that the accused was acting on instructions received from foreign-based operatives and was allegedly part of a larger conspiracy to disturb peace and security in Punjab.
A case has been registered at Patara Police Station in Jalandhar Rural under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with sections of the Explosive Substances Act and the Arms Act. The arrested suspect is currently being interrogated to gather further information about the network and its planned activities.
Police teams are also working to identify other members of the module, including local associates who may have provided logistical support. Investigators are examining the financial trail, communication records, and possible cross-border links to determine the full extent of the conspiracy.
Senior police officials said the investigation remains active and additional arrests cannot be ruled out as fresh leads emerge. They added that intelligence agencies are coordinating closely to trace the overseas handlers believed to be orchestrating such activities from abroad.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the state, Punjab Police said it would continue to intensify operations against terror outfits, organised crime syndicates, and anti-national elements. Officials maintained that coordinated intelligence-based action remains crucial in preventing cross-border terror attempts and ensuring peace and public safety across Punjab.
The latest operation is being seen as another significant success in Punjab’s sustained campaign against terror networks, underlining the state’s continued focus on neutralising extremist threats before they can translate into acts of violence.
