In a significant operation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has executed a widespread crackdown, conducting raids at 50 locations spanning six states, with a prime focus on dismantling the Khalistan-Gangster nexus. Reliable sources indicate that these meticulously planned raids were orchestrated to apprehend hawala operators and logistical facilitators associated with gangsters who maintain connections with the Khalistani movement.
The states subject to these extensive operations include Punjab, with raids at 30 locations, Rajasthan with 13, Haryana with 4, Uttarakhand with 2, and single locations in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
In a major development, the NIA has successfully detained an individual believed to be closely associated with gangster-turned-terrorist Arsh Dala. The arrest was made in Ferozepur, Punjab, and the detainee is expected to be interrogated in Chandigarh. While authorities have identified him as an aide to Dala, the individual’s family contends that he is a mere laborer, earning a meager monthly income of Rs 12,000. The NIA has served him a notice under Section 160 of the CrPC.
Notably, the NIA had previously issued a list comprising 19 fugitive Khalistani terrorists residing in various countries such as the UK, US, Canada, Dubai, Pakistan, and others. These individuals face the likelihood of having their properties confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation. The NIA’s actions against these fugitives are anticipated to be carried out under the stringent anti-terror law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). These individuals are accused of orchestrating anti-India propaganda from abroad, posing a significant threat to national security.
Furthermore, the NIA has announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh each for information leading to the arrest of designated terrorists Harwinder Singh Sandhu, alias Rinda, and Lakhbir Singh Sandhu, alias Landa. These individuals are allegedly linked to the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and stand accused of promoting terror activities within India.
As part of its intensified efforts to curb pro-Khalistan terrorists, the NIA has also offered a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for information leading to the arrest of three associates affiliated with BKI, namely Parminder Singh Kaira from Ferozpur, Satnam Singh, and Yadvinder Singh from Tarn Taran in Punjab.
According to the NIA, these individuals, along with four others, are wanted in a case registered earlier this year, which pertains to BKI’s alleged involvement in terrorist activities aimed at disrupting India’s peace and communal harmony, while actively propagating terror in the state of Punjab.