Gurdaspur, 09 April (H.S.): A joint operation by Amritsar Rural Police, Gurdaspur Police and the State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) Amritsar of the Counter Intelligence wing, along with central agencies, has led to the busting of an ISI-sponsored Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terror module. Two operatives have been arrested in the operation, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said on Thursday.

The arrested accused have been identified as Akash Masih and Jablaun, both residents of Dulla Nangal under Police Station Ghuman Kalan in Gurdaspur district. Police said that both individuals have a criminal background.

DGP Gaurav Yadav revealed that the arrests led to significant recoveries, including five hand grenades, two special detonators, a Push-to-Talk (PTT) timer with coder and decoder, a 9V battery, and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) material comprising one kilogram of high explosive packed with nails. Additionally, one Baofeng walkie-talkie along with a cable and trigger mechanism was also seized.

He said the recovery indicates that the terror module was preparing to carry out high-impact attacks aimed at disturbing public peace and law and order in the state. The timely action by police agencies has averted a potential major threat.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Border Range Sandeep Goel stated that preliminary investigations suggest the ISI-backed module was being operated by foreign-based handlers. Further investigations are underway to establish forward and backward linkages and to uncover the entire conspiracy, including any local support networks involved.

Sharing operational details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gurdaspur Aditya said that during a special police checking at T-point Jogowal Bedia, two young men were seen approaching on a motorcycle from the direction of village Jogowal Bedia. On noticing the police presence, the suspects attempted to make a U-turn to flee, but were intercepted by alert police teams.

The SSP added that the pillion rider was carrying two bags—one blue and one yellow—covered with a cloth. Upon searching the bags, police recovered explosive materials and devices. Forensic and bomb disposal teams were immediately called to the spot, and the explosives and grenades were safely defused.

In this connection, a case FIR No. 45 dated April 8, 2026 has been registered under Sections 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act at Police Station Kalanaur in Gurdaspur. Further investigations are ongoing.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH