IED Hidden in Tiffin Bag, Firearms Recovered: BKI Terror Module Busted Near Chandigarh Bus Stand

Chandigarh: Security agencies have been alerted after a case of possible terrorist conspiracy came to light in the city. Police have recovered suspected IED, explosive material and weapons from behind the Inter-State Bus Terminus located in Sector 43. Three youths have been arrested in the case. According to the police, preliminary investigation has revealed his alleged links with the banned terrorist organisation Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). However, the investigation into the allegations is still ongoing and the charges have not been proven in court.

How were the three accused identified?

According to the police, the arrested youth have been identified as 19-year-old Lovepreet Singh, 21-year-old Jashanpreet Singh alias Jashandeep and 19-year-old Prabhpreet Singh alias Prabh. Of these, two accused are said to be from Tarn Taran district and one from Amritsar. Police acted on the basis of intelligence and detained all three.

What did the police find from the spot?

According to officials, during the search, about five kilos of gelatine sticks, detonators, power source, wires and remote operated electronic system besides a pistol, magazine and five live cartridges were recovered. The suspected IED was kept hidden in a bag. Police surrounded the area and seized the recovered material.

Are there connections to BKI's foreign handlers?

In the preliminary investigation, the police have found indications of contact of the accused with the alleged BKI handler Satnam alias Satta Nowshera, operating from a foreign base. Investigative agencies are trying to find out who gave the instructions to the three, where the explosive materials came from and where they were to be used in Chandigarh.

Was there a plan for any major attack in Chandigarh?

Police suspect that the accused were sent to plant IED in Chandigarh. However, investigating agencies are still trying to unearth the entire network and possible targets of the alleged conspiracy. Police have registered an FIR in this matter under relevant sections at the Sector-36 police station.

Why was security increased after the incident?

After the recovery of IED and explosive material, security has been increased at important places and major transit points of the city. Police have appealed to people not to pay attention to rumours and remain alert. Officials say that there is no need to panic at the moment and a detailed investigation of the matter is being done.

Was BKI module caught in Chandigarh earlier also?

This is said to be the second action related to the alleged BKI module in Chandigarh within about a month. Earlier in late July, the police had arrested a suspect and claimed to have recovered IED and explosive material from him. In the latest case, the investigating agencies may also investigate any possible link between the two cases.