Chandigarh/Moga: Punjab Police has claimed to have foiled a major alleged terror conspiracy with the arrest of 17 people, including three alleged key executors linked to the July 8 grenade attack on Police Station Sadar in Moga. Investigators also recovered an improvised explosive device (IED), explosive material, an electronic detonator, a 9mm Glock pistol with a magazine, and the motorcycle allegedly used in the attack.

Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said preliminary investigations indicate that the accused were allegedly acting on the directions of UK-based Iqbal Singh alias Ravi Dhaliwal, whom police described as the alleged mastermind behind the conspiracy. According to the police, the group not only carried out the low-intensity grenade attack on the police station but was also allegedly planning to plant an IED on a train operating between Ferozepur and Jammu.

The three alleged executors have been identified as Gagan alias Kali, Rajesh alias Khanna, and Shubham alias Bhinder, all residents of Ferozepur district. Police said subsequent investigations led to the arrest of 14 more suspects accused of providing logistical support, shelter, and assistance in expanding the network.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Faridkot Range Nilambari Jagdale said sustained technical surveillance and human intelligence enabled investigators to trace the suspects and dismantle the alleged module. She added that the recovered IED was intended for use on the Ferozepur-Jammu train, averting what police described as a potentially serious security threat.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Moga Sartaj Singh Chahal said interrogation of the arrested suspects helped uncover the wider network, resulting in further arrests. He added that the investigation is continuing and that additional arrests and recoveries are expected.

The case, initially registered following the July 8 grenade attack, has since been expanded with charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Explosive Substances Act, the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, and multiple provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), as Punjab Police continues its investigation into the alleged terror module.