Punjab anti-terror operation Gurdaspur: The Punjab Police on Thursday dismantled a terror module linked to the banned outfit, Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), which was backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), officials said. The officials added that two operatives fell into the police dragnet, following which a potential major terror attack in the state was foiled. 

The accused, identified as Akash Masih and Jablaun, are native residents of the Dulla Nangal village in the state’s Gurdaspur district, and have prior criminal records. 

Cache of arms, explosives seized

According to police, a cache of arms and explosive materials was seized from the possession of the accused duo after they were arrested. The seized items included five hand grenades, two specialised detonators and components used to assemble Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). 

Additionally, the cops recovered one kilogram of explosives packed with nails, a push-to-talk timer equipped with coder and decoder, a 9-volt battery, a Baofeng walkie-talkie and a trigger mechanism too. 

Multiple agencies lend contribution in anti-terror operation

Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said that the operation was carried out through coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, including the state’s Counter Intelligence Wing and Central authorities. He added that the crackdown was executed by a joint team comprising officials from the Amritsar Rural Police, Gurdaspur Police and the State Special Operation Cell in Amritsar. 

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sandeep Goel said that a preliminary probe indicates the module was being controlled by handlers based abroad, and traces its links to the ISI. 

Punjab anti-terror operation Gurdaspur: Breakthrough comes at checkpoint

Officials said that the breakthrough came during a routine checkpoint set up at Jogowal Bedia village on Thursday. Gurdaspur Superintendent of Police (SP) Aditya said that two bike-borne men attempted to flee upon spotting police personnel. 

The duo was intercepted, and when the cops searched their cloth-wrapped bags, they found explosive materials concealed inside it. Following the discovery, a bomb disposal and forensic team were immediately deployed to defuse the recovered grenades and explosives. 

Probe on

Police officials told the media that the accused have been booked by the Kalanaur police under provisions of the Explosive Substances Act. They added that the accused are being interrogated to ascertain both forward and backward linkages, identify the wider network and unearth any local support systems aiding the module.

Also read: BJP Chandigarh HQ blast: Five of a terror module linked to ISI held, search on for other accused