Chandigarh Grenade Blast Investigation: NIA Conducts Sweeping Searches in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand
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Synopsis
The NIA has executed extensive searches linked to the BKI terrorist outfit in northern regions, focusing on the Chandigarh grenade attack. Various incriminating materials were seized, and the investigation aims to uncover crucial evidence related to the attack orchestrated by operatives in both India and abroad.
Key Takeaways
- NIA conducted raids at multiple locations.
- Focus on BKI terrorist outfit linked to grenade attack.
- Seized incriminating evidence during searches.
- Investigating cross-border connections.
- Operatives based in India and US involved.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted comprehensive searches at various sites associated with the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist organization in relation to the Chandigarh grenade attack case.
The operation focused on locations in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh, connected to the US-based terrorist Harpreet Singh, also known as Happy Passian.
Searches were executed in Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Bathinda, and Ferozepur districts of Punjab, as well as in Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh, Rudrapur district of Uttarakhand, and in Chandigarh.
During the raids, incriminating materials such as mobile phones, digital devices, and documents were confiscated.
The agency executed searches at 16 locations across Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, with the raids encompassing 14 sites in Punjab and one each in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
The objective of the operation was to uncover vital evidence and identify individuals connected to the grenade blast.
Indeed, following the initial inquiry in Punjab, police suggested the involvement of pro-Khalistan leaders operating from Pakistan and the US. Consequently, the case was handed over to the NIA for an extensive investigation into the larger criminal conspiracy involving cross-border ties.
The case was registered under directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, concerning the hand grenade attack on a residence in Sector 10/D, Chandigarh, on September 9 of last year, executed by the apprehended suspects Rohan Masih and Vishal Masih.
NIA investigations have uncovered a conspiracy orchestrated by Pakistan-based Harwinder Singh Sandhu, also known as Rinda, and US-based Harpreet Singh (Happy Passian), both affiliated with the BKI. They conspired to launch an attack on a retired police officer.
To carry out the assault, they enlisted operatives based in India and provided funding, weapons, and logistical support. The conspiracy also involved the smuggling of terror hardware into India using a dead-drop model.
