Punjab Police Foil Target Killings, Bust Drug Racket in Major Operations

Punjab Police thwarted potential target killings with the arrest of Babbar Khalsa International operatives. Meanwhile, a major drug smuggling racket was dismantled, leading to significant seizures of weapons and drugs. These operations underline the state's commitment to eliminating terror and organized crime.

Punjab Police successfully averted potential target killings through an intelligence-based operation, arresting a member of the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI)-backed terror module, officials confirmed on Thursday. The Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab announced on social media that the operation was a significant step in preventing targeted violence.

The State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) in Amritsar captured operatives Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia and Resham Singh, who were allegedly engaged in illegal activities under the direction of their foreign handlers. The police recovered a pistol, two magazines, nine live bullets, and one empty bullet shell during the operation. Punjab Police emphasized their ongoing commitment to eradicating both terrorism and organized crime under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

Earlier in the week, the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab, in collaboration with Rajasthan Police and Bathinda Police, arrested three associates of the Lawrence Bishnoi and USA-based Goldy Brar Gang. The suspects, identified as Gurpreet Singh, Maninder Singh alias Munshi, and Harcharanjit Singh, were found in possession of illegal firearms. The operation also linked them to past violent crimes, including murder and attempted murder.

In another breakthrough, Punjab Police uncovered a Pakistan-backed drug smuggling ring in Tarn Taran district, arresting Gurmukh Singh and Jagwant Singh. Authorities seized 7 kilograms of heroin, five pistols, and additional ammunition. The arrests were made at a special checkpoint, and subsequent investigations aim to dismantle the larger network.

(With inputs from agencies.)