In a significant breakthrough against trans-border terrorism, the Punjab Police’s Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in a joint intelligence-led operation with Tarn Taran Police, successfully averted a major terror attack allegedly planned by Pakistan-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) operative Harwinder Singh Rinda and Lakhbir Singh alias Landa, both backed by Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI.
Major Terror Plot Foiled in Punjab; IED Recovered in Tarn Taran
According to DGP Punjab, the AGTF acted promptly on credible human intelligence inputs, which indicated a possible terror strike being planned in the border state. Acting swiftly, a well-coordinated search operation was launched in the Tarn Taran district, during which an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was recovered before it could be delivered to Rinda’s associates.
The recovered IED, a potential threat to public safety, was immediately secured and transported to a safer location. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was pressed into service, which later defused the device in a controlled detonation, preventing what could have been a catastrophic explosion.
Officials revealed that the operation thwarted a planned terror strike intended to disrupt peace
Officials revealed that the operation thwarted a planned terror strike intended to disrupt peace and incite panic in the state. The seizure of the IED is being seen as part of a larger conspiracy fueled by cross-border handlers to revive terrorism in Punjab through sleeper cells and smuggling of arms and explosives.
An FIR under the Explosives Act has been registered at Police Station Sirhali in Tarn Taran. Further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend local operatives or facilitators connected to the plot.
The Punjab Police, through this successful operation, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to cracking down on organized crime and ensuring the safety of its citizens. Authorities also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or helpline.
This development comes at a time when Punjab has witnessed multiple attempts by terrorist organizations to infiltrate through the international border, often using drones to smuggle arms and narcotics.
