The North News
Chandigarh, August 25
Punjab Police have foiled a major terror plot with the seizure of explosives and the arrest of one suspect linked to Pakistan’s ISI-backed networks. Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said Batala Police recovered four hand grenades (SPL HGR-84, also known as Arges HG-84) and a nearly 2kg RDX-based improvised explosive device (IED) concealed in bushes along a road leading to Amritsar. Officers also found a dual-band FM transceiver, a headset and other communication accessories.
According to investigators, the cache was placed under instructions from UK-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) operative Nishan Singh, alias Nishan Jodia, who is said to be acting at the behest of Pakistan-based militant Harvinder Singh Rinda. The conspiracy, police allege, was aimed at destabilising peace and harmony in Punjab.
One man, identified as Ravinder Pal Singh of Puriya Kala village, has been arrested. Police are searching for a second suspect, while efforts are underway to secure the deportation of Nishan Singh from the UK. The Punjab Police has already sought assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs and India’s Consulate in Birmingham.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Batala, Suhail Qasim Mir, said the explosives were retrieved through a “dead letterbox” method, with instructions provided by Nishan Singh. He added that the bust has disrupted a cross-border conspiracy to spread terror in Punjab.
A case has been registered under the Explosive Substances Act, with additional charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) added as investigations uncovered the terror links.
