Punjab Police Bust ISI-Backed BKI Terror Module; Six Arrested in Batala Grenade Attack Plot

In a significant counter-terrorism breakthrough, Punjab Police has dismantled a Pakistan-backed terror module operated by the banned Khalistani outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). The operation was spearheaded by Batala Police and led to the arrest of six operatives linked to foreign-based handlers.

In a major breakthrough against #Pakistan's ISI-backed terror networks, @BatalaPolice busts a #BKI terror module operated by foreign-based handlers Maninder Billa & Mannu Agwan on the directions of Harwinder Singh Rinda, arresting six operatives: Jatin Kumar @ Rohan, Barinder… pic.twitter.com/CxZTtsppeI

— DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) May 20, 2025

Arrested Operatives:

Jatin Kumar alias Rohan

Barinder Singh alias Sajan

Rahul Masih

Abraham alias Rohit

Sohit

Sunil Kumar

According to the Director General of Police (DGP), Punjab, the module was being directed from abroad by Portugal-based Maninder Billa and BKI mastermind Mannu Agwan, both acting on the orders of Harwinder Singh Rinda, a known ISI-backed terrorist. Mannu Agwan is believed to have assumed operational charge of the network after the recent arrest of Happy Passian in the United States.

Planned Attack & Recovery

The group had attempted a grenade attack outside a liquor vend in Batala, signaling a serious threat to public safety. During recovery efforts, Jatin Kumar reportedly opened fire on police personnel. He was injured in retaliatory fire and is currently admitted to the Civil Hospital in Batala under police custody.

Police have recovered a 30-bore pistol, and a case has been registered at PS Civil Lines, Batala, under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Official Statement

In an official statement, the Punjab Police reiterated its commitment to neutralizing terror threats and maintaining peace across the state. The DGP emphasized that Punjab will not tolerate the use of its soil for international terror conspiracies.

This latest crackdown is part of the state's intensified vigilance against sleeper cells and radical elements attempting to revive militancy in Punjab with cross-border support.