The National Investigation Agency (NIA) executed a sweeping crackdown across six states, targeting the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and the Lawrence Bishnoi crime syndicate. In a coordinated effort, NIA teams conducted raids at 32 locations in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Chandigarh. The operation resulted in the confiscation of illegal arms, ammunition, incriminating documents, digital devices, and a cash amount of Rs 4.60 lakh.
The NIA’s focus was on three cases related to the BKI’s terror activities and the criminal networks associated with Lawrence Bishnoi. The seized items included two pistols, two magazines, and ammunition. The cases involved conspiracies, smuggling of arms and ammunition, explosives, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) across borders. These terror resources were utilized by operatives for bomb explosions, targeted killings, extortions, and terror funding nationwide.
In one of the cases, NIA targeted the BKI, a banned terrorist outfit. The agency identified Harwinder Singh alias Rinda and Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa as key conspirators involved in plotting terror activities and smuggling arms into Punjab. The duo was found to be channeling funds through various MTSS channels to associates for executing terrorist acts. The NIA had initiated the case suo moto on July 10 last year and has been actively pursuing those linked to these activities.
The crackdown also extended to Lawrence Bishnoi’s crime syndicate, with raids conducted at seven locations. Goldy Brar, among Bishnoi’s associates, was implicated under UA(P)A. This syndicate, influenced by a “designated individual terrorist” Harwinder Singh alias Rinda, had established criminal networks involved in high-profile crimes, including the murders of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and religious-social leaders like Pardeep Kumar. Additionally, the syndicate engaged in large-scale extortions targeting businessmen and professionals, creating a widespread impact on various states and even reaching international dimensions.
In the third case, NIA conducted nine raids involving proscribed terrorist organizations and criminal gangs operating both in India and abroad. These entities were found to be orchestrating terror and criminal conspiracies across different parts of the country. The searches were part of the NIA’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist outfits and individual terrorists engaged in criminal and terrorist activities within India, along with targeting their support networks.
The multi-state crackdown showcased the NIA’s commitment to neutralizing threats posed by banned terrorist organizations and criminal syndicates. By targeting key conspirators, arms smugglers, and those involved in terror financing, the NIA aimed to disrupt the intricate web of activities supporting terrorism and organized crime. The seized weapons, documents, and digital evidence are crucial in building cases against those responsible for planning and executing these illegal activities.
Overall, the NIA’s relentless pursuit of individuals and organizations involved in terrorism and organized crime underscores the importance of a proactive approach in safeguarding national security. The coordinated efforts across multiple states reflect a comprehensive strategy to root out threats and dismantle networks that pose a risk to the peace and stability of the country.