Chandigarh Police Arrest 3 Suspected BKI Operatives, Recover 5 Kg Explosives

Three suspected operatives linked to the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) were arrested in Chandigarh with around 5 kilograms of gelatin stick explosives, a detonator, a remotely operated triggering system, a pistol, a magazine and five live cartridges, police said on Monday. The arrests were made on August 22 following specific intelligence inputs regarding the movement of suspected BKI operatives in the city. Investigators suspect the accused were allegedly preparing to carry out an attack using an improvised explosive device (IED).

According to the preliminary investigation, the three suspects had allegedly come into contact with Satnam alias Satta Naushera, a foreign-based handler suspected by investigators to be associated with BKI. Police are examining whether the accused were acting on his instructions and whether they had been directed to carry out an IED-related operation in Chandigarh. The alleged plan, according to investigators, was intended to create terror, although the exact target and circumstances surrounding the suspected plot are still being established.

The accused have been identified as Lovepreet Singh, 19, from Sarhali village in Tarn Taran district; Jashanpreet Singh alias Jashandeep, 21, from Deobath village in Tarn Taran; and Prabhpreet Singh alias Prabh, 19, from Tarsikka village in Amritsar district. Police said the arrests followed intelligence inputs that helped investigators track the suspected operatives. The case has been registered at Police Station 36 under Sections 4(b) and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act.

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The recovery of explosives and other material has become a key part of the investigation as authorities seek to determine how the accused allegedly obtained the items. Police have taken possession of the gelatin sticks, detonator, remote triggering equipment and firearms recovered during the operation. Investigators are also examining whether the material was intended for a specific location in Chandigarh and whether any preparations had already been made to execute the suspected plan.

Authorities are further probing the alleged links between the arrested men and the foreign-based handler. Investigators are trying to establish whether the three suspects were operating independently or were part of a wider network allegedly involved in planning terror-related activities. The inquiry is also expected to examine whether other individuals were involved in providing logistical support, weapons or explosive material to the accused.

Chandigarh Police said the investigation remains underway and that further details will emerge as investigators examine the suspected network and the evidence recovered from the accused. The arrests and recovery have prompted authorities to closely examine possible threats to public safety in the city. Police said firm action would be taken against attempts to disturb peace and public order, while the investigation continues into the alleged conspiracy and the intended use of the recovered explosives.

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