Chandigarh: In a major counter-terrorism operation, the Punjab Police’s State Special Operations Cell (SSOC), SAS Nagar, foiled a suspected terror conspiracy and arrested two individuals allegedly linked to a foreign-based terror operative. A fully assembled RDX-based Improvised Explosive Device (IED), weighing around 2.5 kg and reportedly ready for use, was recovered from their possession.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Mani Singh (32) of Gujjarpura and Abhishek Kumar (28) of Gillwali Gate, both residents of Amritsar.
According to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, the recovered IED was fully assembled and capable of causing significant damage. He stated that the operation successfully prevented an alleged plot aimed at targeting critical public infrastructure in SAS Nagar, averting a potentially serious threat to public safety.
Police officials said further investigations are underway to trace the broader network, including handlers, associates and other links connected to the conspiracy.
Sharing details of the operation, Inspector General of Police (Counter Intelligence) Ashish Choudhary said that acting on specific intelligence inputs, police teams intercepted the two suspects near a park opposite YPS Chowk in Mohali. The duo had reportedly travelled from Amritsar to Mohali by bus while carrying the explosive device.
Following the recovery of the IED, the Bomb Disposal Squad was immediately deployed and successfully neutralised the device in accordance with established safety protocols.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Mani Singh had recently established contact with a foreign-based handler through a social media platform and later introduced his brother-in-law Abhishek Kumar to the contact. During their interactions, the handler allegedly offered financial assistance in exchange for carrying out certain activities. Investigators believe both accused agreed to work for the handler due to financial difficulties.
A case has been registered at Police Station SSOC, SAS Nagar, under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Explosive Substances Act. The investigation is continuing.
