KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
India 15-Apr-2024
On April 15, India and the United Kingdom (UK) discussed expediting action under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and prioritizing extradition requests at the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) headquarters in New Delhi. Notable fugitives sought by Indian agencies, such as Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, and Sanjay Bhandari, along with Khalistani separatists and terrorist sympathizers, are based in the UK. CBI Director Praveen Sood and UK representatives, including Acting High Commissioner Christina Scott, along with Interpol Secretary-General candidate Stephen Kavanagh, discussed enhancing operational collaboration, criminal intelligence sharing, and combating financial crimes, terrorism, cybercrime, and transnational threats.
India 15-Apr-2024
The recent firing incident at Salman Khan's Mumbai residence has spotlighted the Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate, with Anmol Bishnoi, a syndicate member, claiming responsibility. Their international reach was evident in the gunfire at Punjabi singer Gippy Grewal's Canada residence in November 2023. Lawrence Bishnoi's connections with Haryana's Kala Jathedi and other criminals highlight their extensive operations, including extortion and orchestrating attacks. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) charge sheet reveals Bishnoi's remote control of operations from jail and funding pro-Khalistan extremists abroad. Anmol Bishnoi's warning to Salman Khan signifies escalating tensions, showcasing the syndicate's bold tactics.
India 15-Apr-2024
Barnala Police on April 15 busted an inter-state drug racket, arresting one individual identified as Vikram Kumar and seizing a truck carrying 2100 kg of poppy husk near Dhanaula in Barnala district in Punjab.
India 15-Apr-2024
The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of Punjab Police of April 15 arrested three drug peddlers having links with cross border drug smugglers, identified as Manjit Singh alias Mani, Rohit Sethi and Bhuvnesh Chopra alias Ashish, and seized 7 kg of heroin along with INR 36 lakh drug money, one .32 bore pistol with 5 live rounds, one .315 bore rifle with 5 live rounds and magazine and two .30 bore pistols with 10 rounds and magazine, from their possession in Ferozepur in Ferozepur district.
India 15-Apr-2024
Police on April 15 arrested an individual identified as Karamjit Singh alias Mann alias Gola alias Gurdial Singh, and seized 220 grams of heroin and INR 1.65 lakh drug money from his possession, near Bandala village in Ferozepur district.
India 15-Apr-2024
Police on April 15 arrested two persons, identified as Manpreet Singh and Musami and seized 6 kg of poppy husk from their truck at GT Road, near Fatehgarh Sahib in Fatehgarh Sahib district. The contraband was hidden in a specially designed box under the rear seat of the truck’s cabin.
India 15-Apr-2024
Police on April 15 arrested one person identified as Amrik Singh and seized 1 kg of opium from his truck, at Tarkhan Majra T-point near Tarkhan Majra village in Sirhind in Fatehgarh Sahib district.
India 15-Apr-2024
Police on April 15 arrested 12 gang members of the Lakhbir Singh Landa group, identified as Jasvir Singh Jassa, Maninder Singh, Gurjit Singh, Yuvraj Kumar, Angrez Singh, Manpreet Singh, Dharminder Singh, Jaspreet Singh, Balwinder Singh, Sukhpreet Singh, Harjit Singh and Vishal, and seized two pistols, 26 bullets and a motorcycle from their possession, in Kapurthala in Kapurthala district. The gang, led by Lakhbir Singh Landa and his United Kingdom (UK) based associate Harjit Singh Bhandal, the gang recruited local criminals for their illicit activities, and targeted affluent individuals, making ransom demands via phone calls in Kapurthala and nearby areas.
Canada 16-Apr-2024
Recently, around 1,000 people gathered to commemorate the 40th anniversary of anti-Sikh violence, urging Canada to recognize the 1984 massacre as Sikh genocide and pressuring India for justice, at the Rose Theatre in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Despite Ontario's recognition in 2017, the Canadian federal government has not yet followed suit.
United States 16-Apr-2024
United States (US) State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, in Washington DC on April 16, urged India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions and pursue resolution through dialogue without external intervention. This comes after Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and Union Minister of Defence (UMD) Rajnath Singh made statements regarding India's stance on countering terrorism.
India 16-Apr-2024
Punjab Police on April 16 solved the murder case of Vishva Hindu Parishad’s (VHP’s) Nangal unit president Vikas Prabhakar alias Vikas Bagga, by arresting two accused individuals identified as Mandeep Kumar alias Mangi, and Surinder Kumar alias Rikka and recovering two 32-bore pistols, 16 live cartridges, one empty used cartridge, and a TVS Jupiter scooty used in the crime from their possession in Rupnagar district. Additionally, the police uncovered the suspects’ involvement in a terror module supported by Pakistan-based masterminds. The investigation further revealed that the murder was planned with the involvement of foreign entities based in Pakistan and Portugal.
India 16-Apr-2024
A Special Task Force (STF) of the Police on April 16 arrested four drug peddlers, including three women, identified as Jhony Kumar, his wife Parjeta, his mother Neelam Khosla and Sonia Rani, and seized 800 grams of heroin, INR 2 lakh drug money and a Ford Endeavour from their possession, at Hambran road near Ludhiana in Ludhiana district. Acting on a tip-off, the STF intercepted the accused as they were transporting heroin from Shahkot to Ludhiana via Hambran Road in the Ford Endeavour, leading to their arrest.
India 16-Apr-2024
Punjab and Kaushambi Police on April 16 arrested a member of an international crime syndicate identified as Ghanshyam Vishwakarma, for his involvement in firing at a trader's establishment in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, with the intention of extorting INR 5 crore, in Baiskati village in Kaushambi district in Uttar Pradesh (UP). Vishwakarma, who is a rival of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, is affiliated with the Kaushal Chaudhary gang, known for its global criminal activities. He faces charges in multiple states.
India 16-Apr-2024
Police on April 16 froze properties worth INR 76.55 lakh belonging to a drug smuggler named Sukhchain Singh alias Sonu, in Bhakhra village in Ferozepur district. Singh was charged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in 2012 when 500 grams of heroin were seized from him. As a result of the operation, his residential property valued at INR 72.48 lakh, a pickup van worth INR 3.52 lakh, and a bank account containing INR 55,375 were seized.
India 16-Apr-2024
Police on April 16 revealed that the two men arrested for the murder of Vishva Hindu Parishad's (VHP's) Nangal unit president Vikas Prabhakar alias Vikas Bagga, identified as Mandeep Kumar alias Mangi, and Surinder Kumar alias Rikka were jobless, and they were lured by money to serve as foot soldiers for a terror module backed by a Pakistan-based organization.
Canada 16-Apr-2024
Canada’s 2024 budget, presented on April 16, marked a historic inclusion of the Hindu community as stakeholders for the first time, with the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) invited to an access-restricted reading on April 2 in Ottawa, Canada. The CHCC hailed this as a significant recognition of the Hindu community’s advocacy for businesses and professionals. While substantial allocations were made towards promoting Sikh heritage, including funding for a Sikh arts and culture museum in Toronto, the CHCC expressed concerns over the absence of targeted provisions for the Hindu community in the budget. The government’s commitment to diversity and preserving South Asian heritages was highlighted, yet the CHCC emphasized the need for equitable treatment and representation in governmental initiatives.
India 16-Apr-2024
The police on April 16 arrested a member of the notorious Jitender Gogi syndicate, identified as Piyush Barela alias Sunny, and seized an illegal semi-automatic sophisticated pistol loaded with three bullets from the Manglapuri area in South West Delhi, Delhi. According to the police, Sunny was apprehended while en route to assassinate a rival gang member and had been recruited for this task by gangsters Rohit and Monu Dagar.
India 17-Apr-2024
Punjab Police on April 17 dismantled an interstate drug cartel operating from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), arresting three individuals, Gurjant Singh alias Ravi, Simarjit Singh alias Nikka Bath, and Jaspreet Singh along with 8 kg of heroin and INR 5 lakh in drug money near Madhopur in Pathankot district, Punjab. Gurjant and Simarjit were apprehended on April 17, while Jaspreet was detained on April 22. Further investigations revealed Harpal Singh alias Bittu Bhalwan, a UK-based B-category gangster, as the alleged mastermind orchestrating the network remotely.
India 17-Apr-2024
Police on April 17 arrested one suspect, identified as Dildar Singh and seized one pistol, along with ammunition and INR 9,80,000 from his possession, in Jethuwal Village in Amritsar district in Punjab. During interrogation, Dildar Singh disclosed that he obtained the pistol from Vishal, who was detained in Kurukshetra District Jail, Haryana. Vishal admitted to possessing a .32 bore pistol and a country-made pistol, which he acquired due to his affiliation with the Bambiha gang and involvement in arms procurement from Madhya Pradesh (MP). Acting on this information, the police recovered the pistols from Vishal's residence.
Canada 17-Apr-2024
On April 17, Canada issued an updated travel advisory for India, warning its citizens about the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled from April 19 to June 1, 2024. The advisory emphasized the potential for demonstrations before, during, and after the elections and advised travellers to stay vigilant.
India 17-Apr-2024
Malerkotla Police recently attached movable and immovable properties belonging to three drug peddlers identified as Khushi Mohammad, Mohammad Nazir, and Mohammad Sehbaz, with a total value of INR 1,78,77,000, in Malerkotla district, Punjab. The police seized these properties located in Chamrian Wala Khoo, Abbaspura, and Jamalpura villages in Malerkotla district, following approval from competent authorities in Delhi. These properties, constructed between 2021 and 2023, were acquired using proceeds from illegal drug trafficking activities. Furthermore, the police have identified eight additional cases involving properties worth crores for potential attachment.
Pakistan 18-Apr-2024
Pakistan’s Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, speaking at a ceremony in Darshan Devery at Kartarpur, Narowal district, Punjab province, Pakistan, on April 18, announced plans to improve facilities for Sikh pilgrims. This includes constructing modern hotels at their holy sites, underscoring the government's dedication to offering superior services and security.
India 18-Apr-2024
In a significant breakthrough, the police recently dismantled a complex global drug smuggling network originating from Punjab to Himachal Pradesh (HP), led by a Delhi-based interstate drug smuggler and software engineer identified as Sandeep Shah, by arresting two individuals, identified as Veer Singh and Santosh Kumar alias Gappa with large quantities of chitta (heroin) in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (HP). The operation utilized WhatsApp for communication and coordination, taking advantage of the platform’s anonymity and encryption. The network’s modus operandi involved discreetly ordering potent narcotics like heroin on WhatsApp and dispatching them through courier services disguised within innocuous parcels.
India 18-Apr-2024
The police and the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) on April 18 arrested two individuals associated with the Bambiha gang, identified as Anmoldeep Singh and Gurmeet Singh and seized two pistols, 10 cartridges, and a car in Sri Muktsar Sahib district in Punjab.
India 18-Apr-2024
According to sources, the recent arrest of two shooters allegedly involved in firing outside actor Salman Khan’s residence and linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi’s syndicate has revealed a new modus operandi. Traditionally targeting vulnerable minors, the syndicate has now turned to luring unsuspecting labourers with promises of lucrative rewards. Operating from abroad, the gang coordinates its activities, with individuals overseas instructing recruits to carry out orders. Utilizing internet-based services and international coordination, the syndicate engages in various criminal activities, including extortion and smuggling, with Bishnoi orchestrating operations from prison and channelling funds abroad.
India 18-Apr-2024
Noida Police on April 18 arrested three members of the Bawariya Gang identified as Sher Singh alias Sheru, Sunny Sharma alias Rampal, and Daya Sagar and seized three pistols, cartridges, ten chains weighing approximately 100 grams and valued at INR 8 to 9 lakh, a stolen motorcycle, and a car from their possession in Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh (UP). The suspects were involved in crimes across multiple cities, including Jaipur, Haridwar, Sitapur, and the National Capital Region (NCR).
Canada 18-Apr-2024
On April 18, Khalistani protesters commemorated 300 days since the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar by accusing the Indian government of involvement in Nijjar's death and burning and slashing Indian flags outside the Indian Consulate in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Protesters, organised by Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), chanted for Khalistan independence, while SFJ chief and Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun accused Indian spies of operating from the consulate.
India 19-Apr-2024
Police on April 19 arrested a youth, identified as Akashdeep Singh and seized 20 grams of opium and INR 25,000 drug money from his possession, near Balongi barrier in Mohali in Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district.
India 19-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on April 19 recovered a pistol without a magazine, from the fields near the International Border (IB), on the outskirts of Bharopal village in Amritsar district.
India 19-Apr-2024
Police on April 19 arrested a sharpshooter of the Lawrence Bishnoi-Goldy Brar gangster syndicate, identified as Sachin alias Chichad, and seized one semi-automatic sophisticated pistol of .32 bore with four live cartridges from his possession, near Mangolpuri Industrial Area in North West Delhi district in Delhi. Sachin was wanted in a recent firing incident in Kurukshetra in Haryana where he was allegedly tasked to intimidate witnesses by setting fire to the victim's house, had come to Delhi on the syndicate's orders.
India 19-Apr-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on April 19 froze the immovable assets of key aide of Pakistan-based Sikh separatists involved in a 2021 motorcycle-borne explosion in Punjab, identified as Surat Singh, in Mahatam Nagar village in Fazilka district. The blast took place on September 15, 2021 in a Bajaj Platina bike in Jalalabad. Singh, designated as a key associate of Habib Khan and the terrorist Lakhveer Singh, had a significant role in a narco-terror racket aimed at destabilizing the region. He utilized encrypted communication channels and fake IDs to facilitate logistical and financial aspects of terrorist activities, leading to his indictment along with Khan and Lakhveer Singh by the NIA.
Pakistan 19-Apr-2024
Ramesh Singh Arora, Pakistan Punjab's first Sikh minister for minorities affairs and president of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), recently sparked controversy over the purchase of three luxury vehicles totalling approximately PKR 5 crore. These transactions, allegedly funded from PSGPC accounts, drew criticism due to the pressing need for gurdwara maintenance under its purview. Despite assertions that the vehicles were not for personal use, concerns have been raised, with calls urging a focus on prioritizing gurdwara development over extravagant expenditures.
India 19-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on April 19 recovered a packet containing about 500 grams of heroin along with a China-made drone, near Neshta village in Amritsar district.
India 19-Apr-2024
The Jalandhar Police Commissionerate on April 19 thwarted planned target killings by apprehending two gangsters from the Bambiha gang, identified as Anil Kumar (alias Rocky) and Mukesh Sharma (alias Munna) and seized 1 kg of opium, three pistols, five magazines, and nine cartridges from the duo in Kabir Nagar area, Jalandhar district. Rocky was caught with a pistol, a magazine, and three live cartridges, leading to Munna's arrest in Delhi's Karol Bagh area. Munna was found with 1 kg of opium, two pistols, four magazines, and six cartridges during his apprehension.
India 19-Apr-2024
On April 19, for the third consecutive day, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) organized a 'rail roko' protest near Shambhu railway station in Patiala district, Punjab. A panchayat is scheduled in Jind district on April 22 to address the arrests of three farmers and alleged police atrocities during previous protests, leading to an open debate invitation extended to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on April 23 at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh.
India 19-Apr-2024
On April 19, two inmates of Sangrur District Jail, identified as Harsh and Dharminder Singh, lost their lives and two others, identified as Gagandeep Singh and Mohammad Sehbag, sustained serious injuries after an alleged altercation among inmates broke out at the Sangrur District Jail in Sangrur. The police could not ascertain the cause of the fight, and investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the incident.
India 19-Apr-2024
The Punjab and Haryana High Court responded to a petition by Punjabi singer Jaskaran Singh Grewal on April 19, directing the police to provide two security personnel to him, citing threats allegedly received from unknown individuals on Instagram in Chandigarh. The court's directive will remain effective until at least May 16, which is the next hearing date. In his petition, Grewal emphasized the seriousness of the threats, citing his brotherly bond with Subhdeep Singh alias Sidhu Moose Wala and suggesting a potential link to Moose Wala's status and their association.
India 20-Apr-2024
The intelligence wing of the Border Security Force (BSF) along with Punjab Police, on April 20, arrested an unidentified drug smuggler and seized INR 1.1 lakh from his possession in Ajnala market, Amritsar district. Initially, the suspect was found with INR 10 thousand, and during interrogation, he disclosed the whereabouts of an additional INR 1 lakh hidden in Samrai village, Dera Baba Nanak tehsil, Gurdaspur district, Punjab. This information led to the successful recovery of the hidden money.
Canada 20-Apr-2024
On April 20, the annual Vaisakhi parade took place, drawing over half a million attendees, which was dedicated to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Surrey in British Columbia province in Canada. Khalistan advocate and New Democratic Party (NDP) Leader Jagmeet Singh was also present and addressed the crowd.
India 20-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops on April 20 recovered 3 packets of heroin weighing 2.220 kg from farming fields adjacent to Natha Singh Wala village in Fazilka district.
India 20-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops on April 20 recovered 2.710 kg of heroin along with a drone from fields near Jangir Singh ki Dhani village in Ferozepur district.
India 20-Apr-2024
Mumbai Police on April 20 declared Lawrence Bishnoi and his brother Anmol Bishnoi as "wanted accused" in the shooting incident outside Salman Khan's residence in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Gupta and Sagar Pal, who were previously arrested in connection with the shooting, allegedly received instructions from the Bishnoi brothers. While Lawrence is incarcerated at Sabarmati Central Prison in Gujarat, Anmol is believed to be in Canada or the United States (US).
India 20-Apr-2024
On April 20, following a deadly clash among prisoners at Sangrur district jail, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Harcharan Singh Bhullar announced a judicial probe into the matter during his visit to the prison in Sangrur, Punjab. The clash resulted in the deaths of two inmates, Harsh and Dharmender, while two others, Gagandeep Singh and Mohd Sehwaz, sustained injuries. Bhullar stated that the altercation stemmed from a previous argument, with a First Information Report (FIR) now registered against 10 individuals primarily involved in violent crimes. Investigations are underway to determine how weapons, including two small knives, a water pipe, and a tree branch, were brought into the jail premises.
Canada 20-Apr-2024
Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh on April 20 stated that his party plans to seek official recognition of the '1984 Sikh genocide' in Parliament, while speaking at the Vaisakhi parade in Surrey in British Columbia province in Canada.
India 21-Apr-2024
According to sources, signs of potential discord within the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) have emerged as Manjit Singh, son of Sikh seminary Damdami Taksal's former chief Sant Giani Kartar Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale (one before Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale), asserted his claim to the Lok Sabha election ticket from Khadoor Sahib in Tarn Taran, Punjab. This challenges the likely candidature of Bikram Singh Majithia, the constituency in-charge. The decision of SAD remains awaited.
India 21-Apr-2024
Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Raghbir Singh, strongly condemned the case filed against an Amritdhari Sikh in Italy for possessing a 'sharp weapon' due to wearing the Siri Sahib, one of the five kakaars of Amritdhari Sikhs, via a written statement on April 21. He described it as a direct attack on religious freedom and emphasized the global presence of Sikhs, calling on the Italian government to uphold religious liberties. Additionally, he directed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to engage with the Italian Embassy to underscore the significance of the Siri Sahib for Amritdhari Sikhs.
India 21-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) along with the Punjab Police on April 21 recovered a drone from farming fields adjacent to Hardo Rattan village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone was identified as China-made DJI Mavic 3 Classic model.
India 21-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) along with the Punjab Police on April 21 recovered a drone from farming fields adjacent to Daoke village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone was identified as China-made DJI Mavic 3 Classic model.
India 21-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) troops on April 21 recovered a damaged drone from fields adjacent to a government school in Dhariwal village in Amritsar district. The recovered drone was identified as a Hexacopter.
India 21-Apr-2024
The Jalandhar Commissionerate Police on April 21 arrested three members associated with the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang, identified as Lalit alias Lucky, Nikhil alias Bholu, and Parasdeep and seized three pistols and six cartridges from their possession near Gurdwara Urban Estate in Jalandhar district. Further investigation revealed that Nikhil and Parasdeep were involved in the murder of Rajdeep Sethi alias Veenu on March 14 in Amritsar, Punjab. Lucky was apprehended in Jalandhar with one country-made illegal pistol and two cartridges, while Nikhil and Parasdeep were captured in Muraina district, Madhya Pradesh (MP), with two illegal firearms and four cartridges.
India 21-Apr-2024
Police on April 21 arrested two youths identified as Iqbal Singh and Satpal, and seized 1 kg of opium from their possession, near Bazidpur Bhoma village in Fazilka district.
Pakistan 22-Apr-2024
Pakistan’s additional secretary of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), Rana Shahid Saleem, stated on April 22 that Pakistan aims to enhance religious tourism, particularly among Sikhs, by improving facilities and infrastructure at key religious sites. He made these remarks while speaking at the Wagah border near Lahore in Punjab Province, Pakistan, bidding farewell to Indian Sikh pilgrims returning from a 10-day pilgrimage to celebrate Vaisakhi in Pakistan. Saleem emphasized plans to improve accessibility, accommodation, and security to attract more Sikh pilgrims. Additionally, he discussed initiatives such as the Kartarpur Corridor and efforts to preserve Sikh heritage and culture.
India 22-Apr-2024
Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) recently reissued orders to remove images of Sikh militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale from its buses, marking a reversal of a similar directive issued two years ago. The move stirred memories of events from July 2022 when PRTC initially instructed all its depots to strip the buses of Bhindranwale and Jagtar Singh Hawara's images, labelling them as terrorists. Protests by the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) compelled PRTC to retract its orders, acknowledging its mistake in labelling them as terrorists.
India 22-Apr-2024
Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) recently reissued orders to remove images of Sikh militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale from its buses, marking a reversal of a similar directive issued two years ago. The move stirred memories of events from July 2022 when PRTC initially instructed all its depots to strip the buses of Bhindranwale and Jagtar Singh Hawara's images, labelling them as terrorists. Protests by the Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) compelled PRTC to retract its orders, acknowledging its mistake in labelling them as terrorists.
India 22-Apr-2024
The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on April 22 arrested Amandeep Singh, the mastermind behind a fatal attack on Punjab Police home guard Jaspal Singh in November 2023, from the Alambagh area in Lucknow, UP. The ATS acted on information provided by the Punjab police, which revealed Singh's involvement in drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
India 22-Apr-2024
Dr. Jitendra Awhad, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar) General Secretary and former Maharashtra Minister, on April 22 received an extortion threat from the Bishnoi gang, echoing a recent incident involving Bollywood actor Salman Khan. Awhad was contacted by an individual claiming allegiance to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, who demanded a substantial sum under the threat of dire consequences, mirroring Khan's situation. While Awhad has not filed a formal complaint yet, he plans to inform the Thane Police about the threat and take appropriate action.
India 22-Apr-2024
On April 22, a member of the Gogi gang, identified as Narender Malik was shot dead by four unidentified attackers in the Alipur area of North Delhi district in Delhi. The attack took place around 2 pm while Malik was in a Tata Ace vehicle with his associates Tarun and Amit. The assailants arrived on two motorcycles and opened fire. Amit managed to escape, but Tarun sustained critical injuries. The police suspect gang rivalry as the motive, considering Malik's affiliation, and are investigating all possible angles.
India 22-Apr-2024
Mohali Police recently arrested five sharp shooters of Lawrence Bishnoi gang identified as Harshpreet Singh, Rajveer Singh, Kartik alias Ashu, Ramandeep, and Jaideep, and seized five sophisticated country-made pistols, one rifle and ammunition from their possession, in Mohali in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (SAS) district. According to Police, Kartik, with a personal vendetta, orchestrated the acquisition of weapons and had direct connections with Jaideep, a sharpshooter affiliated with Mintu Muddesan, who operates under the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Kartik, along with Ramandeep, engaged Harshpreet and Rajveer to form their own gang for retaliatory actions against local rivals.
India 22-Apr-2024
Police on April 22 arrested two category “A” gangsters wanted by Mohali police for supplying weapons to other criminals and key members of the Gopi Ghanshampuria and Harry Chatha gangs, identified as Malkeet Singh alias Nawab and Gamdoor Singh alias Vicky and seized six pistols, 10 cartridges, 12 pistol magazines and a car used in a crime from their possession in Lalru in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (SAS) district.
India 22-Apr-2024
Police recently busted a gang of car-jackers, arresting three unidentified men and seizing a pistol, a dummy revolver, stolen cars, and a fake number plate from their possession in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (SAS) district.
India 22-Apr-2024
Mohali Police arrested an individual identified as Kulwant Singh and seized two .32 bore pistols and six live cartridges from his possession, in Mohali in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (SAS) district.
India 22-Apr-2024
The Supreme Court on April 22 denied former Congress councillor Balwan Khokhar's furlough plea in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, as his counsel withdrew the petition. The Bench advised Khokhar to seek furlough from the appropriate authority.
India 22-Apr-2024
On April 22, Rupinder Singh, the son of a retired assistant sub-inspector (ASI), was shot dead near Max City colony in Amritsar district, Punjab. Police are currently scrutinizing CCTV footage to identify the assailants.
India 22-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on April 22 arrested a Pakistani national near the International Border (IB) after he illegally crossed into Indian territory, in Amritsar sector in Amritsar district. No objectionable items were found in his possession, and following initial questioning, he was transferred to Punjab Police for further investigation.
India 22-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on April 22 recovered a China-made drone from fields adjacent to Wan village in Tarn Taran district. The recovered drone was a DJI Mavic 3 Classic model.
India 22-Apr-2024
A special court on April 22 sentenced retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Haqiqat Rai, Swaran Singh, and Mahant Bikram Nath to 12 years in prison and fined them INR 1.5 lakh each in a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) case in Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar district. The trio was arrested by the Special Task Force in 2018 with 15 kg of opium.
India 23-Apr-2024
According to reports, the ongoing 'rail roko' protest by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) at Shambhu railway station near Rajpura in Patiala district, Punjab, has caused significant disruptions to railway operation, resulting in over INR 25 lakh in losses for the railways and the cancellation of 41 passenger trains daily. Approximately 4,765 passengers were affected, leading to refunds for disrupted travel plans. Additionally, 60 trains were diverted, and five were terminated prematurely.
Pakistan 23-Apr-2024
A police officer assigned to protect Sikh medical practitioner Baba Surjeet Singh, known as Constable Farhad, was killed by unidentified gunmen on April 23 in Peshawar, Pakistan. The police are currently investigating the incident.
India 23-Apr-2024
Punjab Police on April 23 arrested an unidentified member of a terror module who was being controlled by Pakistan-based operatives and seized a Chinese pistol and cartridges from his possession in Jalandhar in Jalandhar district.
India 23-Apr-2024
An Australian journalist, identified as Avani Dias, the South Asia Bureau Chief of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), stated on April 23 that she was forced to leave India because her work visa wasn't extended, citing her reportage on the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar as the likely reason. Dias's documentary on the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar was removed from YouTube India, with the Indian government accusing her of biased reporting and lacking necessary permissions. Meanwhile, an official from the Indian government disputed this claim, stating that Dias left due to personal reasons and timing for another job.
India 24-Apr-2024
Waris Punjab De (WPD) chief Amritpal Singh’s legal counsel Rajdev Singh Khalsa, on April 24, stated that Amritpal Singh is purportedly preparing to contest the Lok Sabha elections as an independent candidate from the Khadoor Sahib seat in Tarn Taran district in Punjab. Khalsa mentioned that Amritpal has agreed to enter politics for the interests of the Khalsa Panth, as communicated during their meeting at Dibrugarh Jail in Assam, where Amritpal is currently held. However, Amritpal’s father, Tarsem Singh, refrained from commenting until meeting his son, considering Amritpal's previous disinterest in politics.
India 24-Apr-2024
Police on April 24 arrested Gurpreet Ram alias Gora, a shooter associated with a terror module funded and operated by foreign-based handlers from Portugal, and seized a pistol and seven live cartridges from him in Rupnagar in Rupnagar district. Gora, connected to the same handlers involved in the recent target killing of Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Vikas Bagga, was intercepted and apprehended before carrying out additional attacks planned by the terror network.
India 24-Apr-2024
Police on April 24 registered a case against three individuals identified as Arvinder Singh, Kulvir Singh, and Raghvir Singh for supplying chitta (heroin), following a complaint filed by Malkit Kaur, whose son died after injecting himself with chitta in Shahpur Kalan village in Sangrur district of Punjab. Later, police arrested Kulvir Singh based on the complaint.
India 24-Apr-2024
Police on April 24 arrested two unidentified individuals, including a woman, with 100 grams of heroin near Gobindpura Nagri village in Sangrur district in Punjab. A case has been registered against them at the Chhajli police station regarding this incident.
India 24-Apr-2024
Fazilka police on April 24 arrested three persons, identified as Sonu Singh, Angrej Singh and Gurbant Singh, and seized 1 kg of heroin and 130 bottles of illicit liquor, from their possession, near Dhani Natha Singh village in Fazilka district.
India 25-Apr-2024
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a key accused, Inderpal Singh Gaba, on April 25 in New Delhi, in connection with the violent attack on the High Commission of India in London, United Kingdom (UK), in March 2023. Gaba, a UK citizen of Afghan descent, claimed coercion into participating during the incident while celebrating his birthday in London. The NIA has not disclosed Gaba's exact role in the attack or his affiliation with pro-Khalistani leaders.
India 25-Apr-2024
Tarsem Singh, the father of jailed Khalistani preacher and chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD) Amritpal Singh, clarified on April 25 in Dibrugarh, Assam, that no final decision has been made regarding Amritpal’s potential candidacy from the Khadoor Sahib constituency in Punjab. Tarsem, accompanied by Amritpal’s maternal uncle Sukhchain Singh and Amarjeet Singh, uncle of Amritpal’s aide Papalpreet Singh, expressed difficulty in having a detailed conversation with Amritpal due to jail restrictions. He refuted claims made by Amritpal's legal counsel, Rajdev Singh Khalsa, about his agreement to contest the Lok Sabha polls, calling it a hasty announcement possibly based on misconception.
United Kingdom 25-Apr-2024
According to a media report, British Sikh lawyers have established a new court as a dispute resolution forum for the Sikh community in the United Kingdom (UK), aimed at aiding families in resolving conflicts in line with Sikh principles. The court is not a religious tribunal but comprises around 30 magistrates and 15 judges, primarily women. They offer mediation services and direct parties to courses covering various issues such as domestic violence and substance misuse. These courses are available in Punjabi and English. In case mediation fails, cases can be brought before a Sikh court judge for legally binding judgments under the Arbitration Act. Participation in the court requires consent from both parties, and there is a focus on safeguarding and cooperation with English courts.
United States 25-Apr-2024
On April 25 in Washington DC, Vedant Patel, the Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the United States (US) State Department, rebuked a Pakistani reporter's questions regarding allegations of visa denial to Australian journalist Avani Dias, who was covering the Indian elections. Patel stated that India determines its visa policies. Avani Dias claimed she was denied coverage, but Indian sources refute her claims, citing visa violations.
India 25-Apr-2024
A high-level delegation from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on April 25, in New Delhi, met with Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla to request a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the April 13 murder of Punjab VHP leader Vikas Prabhakar. Alleging a conspiracy involving Pakistan, they called for transferring the investigation from Punjab Police to the NIA, citing previous killings of Hindu leaders in the state. They emphasized that the apprehended assailants were merely foot soldiers of these foreign-based entities.
India 25-Apr-2024
The Mumbai Police on April 25 arrested two persons in connection with the recent firing outside actor Salman Khan’s house, identified as Sonu Subhash Chander and Anuj Thapan from Bhawanigarh in Sangrur district in Punjab. They are alleged to have provided country-made pistols and cartridges to the shooters on March 15, 2024. Thapan had direct contact with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his brother Anmol Bishnoi, who are wanted in the case. The investigation is ongoing.
India 25-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) along with the Punjab Police, in a joint operation on April 25 recovered a drone from a farming field adjacent to Khemkaran village in Tarn Taran district. The recovered drone was a China-made DJI Matrice 300 RTK.
India 26-Apr-2024
The Punjab Police’s Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in a joint operation with central agencies and the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Police, on April 26 arrested gangster Charanjit Singh alias Raju Shooter and his 10 aides and seized four weapons - one double-barrel rifle and three pistols, along with 26 cartridges during a 48-hour operation in Punjab and J&K. Raju Shooter's aides include Husanpreet Singh alias Husan, Gulab Singh alias Gulab, Amritpal Singh alias Chidi, Baljinder Singh alias Lokka, Bobby, Lovpreet Singh alias Love, Amritpal Singh alias Sandeep Singh, Sajan alias Kalu, Sukhchain Singh alias Mogali, and Harmesh Singh alias Chichu. This operation followed Raju Shooter's escape from Civil Hospital, Tarn Taran, where he was receiving treatment. Raju Shooter, a key figure in an organized criminal gang in the Majha region, has been implicated in various crimes, including a foiled bank robbery in September 2023.
India 26-Apr-2024
Official sources revealed on April 26, a day after Inderpal Singh Gaba was arrested for his alleged involvement in the 2023 attack on the Indian mission by pro-Khalistan supporters in London, United Kingdom (UK), that Inderpal had visited India in December 2023 with his family and was arrested based on a lookout circular (LOC) issued by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Inderpal is a UK citizen and owns liquor and grocery stores. NIA investigations revealed that the attacks in London were part of a larger conspiracy in retaliation to actions against pro-Khalistan separatists in Punjab. His lawyer claims that Gaba was a bystander during the London protest on March 22, 2023, stating he was celebrating his birthday nearby and joined under peer pressure. Furthermore, Gaba's trip to Pakistan in December 2023 was for religious pilgrimage and a friend's engagement.
India 26-Apr-2024
Khalistani preacher and the chief of the Waris Punjab De (WPD) Amritpal Singh’s mother, Balwinder Kaur, stated on April 26 in Dibrugarh, Assam, that Amritpal plans to contest the Lok Sabha elections from the Khadoor Sahib seat in Tarn Taran district, Punjab, as an independent candidate. Amritpal is currently incarcerated in Dibrugarh jail, Assam.
India 26-Apr-2024
Punjab's Chief Electoral Officer, Sibin C, recently reported that law enforcement agencies in the state have seized illicit goods and assets totalling INR 321.51 crore since the implementation of the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha polls. The seizures included drugs valued at INR 287.23 crore, unaccounted cash totalling INR 6.89 crore, and 22.8 lakh litres of liquor worth INR 14.93 crore. Additionally, precious metals and other items worth INR 12.46 crore were confiscated. The Punjab Police spearheaded the enforcement efforts with seizures worth INR 276.19 crore, followed by the Border Security Force (BSF) with INR 22.85 crore. Other agencies, including the state excise department, state GST department, customs department, income tax department, and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), also contributed to the crackdown, seizing goods ranging from INR 1.76 crore to INR 7.21 crore. Among districts, Amritsar led with seizures amounting to INR 60.3 crore, followed by Tarn Taran with INR 53.74 crore, Ferozepur with INR 49.34 crore, and Fazilka with INR 41.71 crore.
India 26-Apr-2024
Superintendent of Police (SP) Vikrant Bhushan recently revealed that the drug trafficking network in Sirsa district in Haryana, bordering Punjab and Rajasthan, has seen a significant rise, with women increasingly participating in the trade. Since 2023, around 50 women have been arrested under the NDPS Act: 36 in 2022, 39 in 2023, and 11 in 2024 so far. Despite police efforts, over 200 women are reportedly involved, often alongside family members. Constraints such as the requirement for female police officers during evening/night questioning hinder police action. Female officers are now deployed in every station to tackle this issue, as women's involvement strengthens the trafficking network, primarily dealing in substances like chitta, heroin, opium, and poppy husk.
India 27-Apr-2024
On April 27, several government offices' walls, including the Deputy Commissioner's office, were defaced with pro-Khalistani graffiti in Bathinda district in Punjab. The police have initiated an investigation and are reviewing nearby CCTV footage to apprehend the culprits. This incident is part of a worrying trend, with similar graffiti appearing in various states over the past year, including Delhi metro stations. While no group has claimed responsibility, previous arrests have linked such actions to individuals associated with the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), allegedly influenced by Khalistani terrorist Gurupatwant Singh Pannun.
India 27-Apr-2024
Khalistani terrorist and the chief of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, issued a threat via video targeting Haryana Chief Minister (CM) Naib Saini and Chief Election Officer Anurag Aggarwal. Pannun vowed to make Haryana part of Khalistan and demanded the distribution of Khalistan Referendum registration forms at every polling booth. He also claimed that slogans supporting Khalistan were written outside the Fatehabad district court in Fatehabad district, Haryana.
Pakistan 27-Apr-2024
According to sources, after an attack targeting a Sikh hakim, resulting in the death of his bodyguard, the Sikh community in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, particularly in Peshawar, is facing a renewed threat from terrorist groups. This has prompted a second wave of migration to Pakistani Punjab or India for safety. There has been an uptick in violence against Sikh community members recently, leading them to flee due to the failure of government-provided security measures.
India 27-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) on April 27 recovered 515 grams of heroin along with a drone near Dhanoe Khurd village in Amritsar district.
India 27-Apr-2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police, in a joint search operation conducted on April 27, recovered a broken China-made drone from fields near Manawa village in Tarn Taran district.
India 27-Apr-2024
The Border Security Forces (BSF) on April 27 detained a Pakistani national near the border fencing in Fazilka Sector in Fazilka district. During interrogation, it was revealed that he had unintentionally crossed over due to a lack of awareness about the border alignment. No objectionable items were found in his possession. After a flag meeting with Pakistan Rangers, the individual was returned to the Pakistani side.
India 28-Apr-2024
The Border Security Forces (BSF), in a joint operation with Punjab Police on April 28 recovered 440 grams of heroin from fields near Rajatal village in Amritsar district.
India 28-Apr-2024
The Border Security Forces (BSF), in a joint operation with Punjab Police on April 28 recovered a Chinese drone from fields adjacent to Rajoke village in Tarn Taran district.
India 28-Apr-2024
The Border Security Forces (BSF), in a joint operation with Punjab Police on April 28 recovered a Chinese drone from fields adjacent to Kalsian Kalan village in Tarn Taran district.
India 28-Apr-2024
Police on April 28 arrested one unidentified operative of the Vicky Gounder gang and seized 3 weapons from his possession, in Jalandhar in Jalandhar district. The gang, notorious for various heinous activities including arms and drugs trafficking, faces intensified scrutiny. Further investigations are underway to uncover the gang's network.
India 28-Apr-2024
Khadoor Sahib parliamentary constituency in Tarn Taran district, Punjab, is preparing for an intense electoral contest. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has nominated senior leader Virsa Singh Valtoha, who will compete against Khalistani preacher and the chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD), Amritpal Singh, with both advocating a 'Panthic agenda'. Shiromani Akali Dal-Amritsar (SAD-A) has withdrawn its candidate in support of Amritpal.
India 28-Apr-2024
Police on April 28 arrested a woman, identified as Dalip Kaur and seized 33 kg of Ganja (Marijuana) from her possession near Bharatgarh village in Rupnagar district in Punjab. Initially, 15 kg was seized from her with an additional 18 kg found hidden near her hut in the forest area close to Bharatgarh.
Canada 28-Apr-2024
At a Khalsa Day celebration on April 28, Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau assured the Sikh community of his government's commitment to protecting their rights and defending against hatred, amid chants of 'Khalistan Zindabad', in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.