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Punjab Police on Saturday evening busted two terror modules of the banned Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), arresting five operatives across Amritsar and Hoshiarpur and seizing a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives.

In Hoshiarpur, four BKI operatives were apprehended. Police recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) containing nearly 2.5 kg of RDX, along with two pistols. Investigations indicate that the arrested members were part of an ISI-backed terror network, reportedly directed by handlers based in the United States.

In Amritsar, a separate operation led to the arrest of another BKI operative, preventing a potential attack on a security establishment. Police recovered a hand grenade, a sophisticated pistol, and ammunition from his possession. Punjab Police Chief Gaurav Yadav said all arrested operatives were acting under instructions from foreign-based handlers.

“The investigations are ongoing, and we are closely monitoring connections across states and abroad,” said Yadav.

Also read: Punjab Police arrests man for links with Pakistan-based terrorist

The seizures reflect heightened vigilance in Punjab, where security agencies have intensified monitoring of banned outfits following intelligence inputs. The discovery of RDX-based explosives and firearms underscores the continued threat posed by foreign-directed terror modules within the state.

Punjab Police have urged citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities, highlighting the critical role of local intelligence in foiling potential attacks. The arrests mark a significant success for counter-terror operations in the region, showcasing coordinated action across multiple districts.

The Babbar Khalsa International, proscribed in India, has historically been linked to violent activities, with networks operating from abroad to orchestrate attacks domestically. Authorities believe that the apprehended operatives were in advanced stages of planning operations targeting security installations.

Further inquiries are being carried out to trace additional members of the network, their sources of explosives, and any potential logistical support within the state. Law enforcement agencies are also liaising with central intelligence units to neutralise cross-border terror coordination.