New Delhi: Punjab Police has claimed a major breakthrough after dismantling two alleged ISI backed cross border terror modules and arresting nine accused, including four juveniles. Authorities also recovered illegal firearms, petrol bombs and live ammunition during the operation.
According to Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, the operation led to the seizure of three illegal pistols, four petrol bottle bombs and nine live cartridges. Preliminary investigations indicate that Pakistan based handlers linked to the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) were allegedly attempting to recruit local youth to carry out terror related activities in India.
Police said the first module was uncovered in the Rajasansi area of Amritsar and allegedly included Sukhman Singh and three juvenile associates. Investigators claim the group had been assigned the task of carrying out an attack at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar during recent student protests.
During questioning, police alleged that Sukhman Singh admitted to being in contact with a Pakistan based ISI handler. Investigators further claimed the group had travelled to Delhi but failed to execute the alleged plan because of heightened security arrangements. Police also alleged that an associate from Uttar Pradesh was expected to supply weapons and explosives, but the plan did not materialise.
The investigation has also revealed that the accused were allegedly tasked with conducting reconnaissance of police establishments and personnel in Punjab.
The second terror module came to light during an investigation into suspicious CCTV cameras discovered near railway tracks last month. According to police, footage captured by these cameras was allegedly being shared with foreign handlers.
Among those arrested are Vansh Kumar, Anmol Singh alias Sahil, Harman Singh alias Hammu, Sukhdev Singh and Sukhman Singh, along with four juveniles.
Police said Vansh Kumar and a juvenile associate were intercepted based on specific intelligence, leading to the recovery of a country made pistol and live cartridges. Investigators also alleged that financial transactions linked to the installation of surveillance cameras were made through digital payments by Sukhdev Singh, who is currently lodged in Amritsar Central Jail, at the direction of fellow inmate Harman Singh. Both were subsequently brought on production warrants and formally arrested as the investigation continues.
