Punjab Police's Initiative Results in Arrest of Passia in the US, Reports DGP Gaurav Yadav
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Synopsis
The Punjab Police successfully apprehended Harpreet Singh, also known as Happy Passia, during a significant operation in the US. This arrest highlights the ongoing international cooperation between India and the United States against terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Happy Passia was arrested in the US.
- He is linked to ISI-backed terror networks.
- His activities included orchestrating targeted killings.
- International collaboration was key in his arrest.
- Efforts for his extradition to India are underway.
Chandigarh, April 18 (NationPress) The Punjab Police announced on Friday that their diligent efforts culminated in the apprehension of Harpreet Singh, also known as Happy Passia, a significant player in the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), which is supported by Pakistan's ISI, and a close ally of terrorist Harvinder Rinda, in Sacramento, California.
Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav hailed this achievement as a significant victory, stating: "Today signifies a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts against ISI-backed terror networks, marked by the announcement of Happy Passia's detention by US authorities. This success is a result of outstanding international collaboration and information exchange between India and the United States."
In his statement, Gaurav Yadav mentioned that the Punjab Police has been consistently providing intelligence to central agencies.
According to reports, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehended Happy Passia in Sacramento on April 17.
DGP Yadav revealed that Happy Passia, originally from Passia village in Amritsar, began his criminal journey with gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, alongside his US-based associates Darman Kahlon and Amrit Bal.
Eventually, Happy Passia became a significant partner of terrorist Harvinder Rinda, operating under the direct supervision of the ISI, he noted.
He highlighted that Passia was the main handler of ISI-supported terror modules in Punjab and played a crucial role in executing targeted killings, grenade assaults on police facilities, and extortion throughout the state from 2023 to 2025.
“Our investigation has revealed Happy Passia's direct involvement in most of the terror acts that occurred in the state following September 2024,” said the DGP, adding that Passia masterminded these terrorist activities from the US, utilizing a network of at-risk youth struggling with addiction, recruiting them to execute these acts in return for money and drugs.
The Punjab Police have carefully monitored all terror modules established by Passia and successfully dismantled them, DGP Yadav stated, noting that a comprehensive dossier detailing Passia's activities was shared with central agencies and subsequently with US authorities, which led to his arrest.
“The Punjab Police has already engaged with central agencies to initiate the legal process for Passia’s extradition to India,” he added.
