Punjab AGTF arrests four linked to Arsh Dalla, recovers firearms after Mohali shooting

In a significant development amidst the ongoing crackdown on organized crime, the Punjab Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in collaboration with SAS Nagar Police, arrested four operatives linked to Canada-based terrorist Arsh Dalla and another foreign handler. The operatives were found in possession of three .32 caliber pistols and 16 cartridges.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Gagandeep Singh and Navjot Singh alias Nishu, both residents of Amloh in Fatehgarh Sahib, and currently residing in Kharar; Lakhwinder Singh, a resident of Bhadson in Patiala; and Vipanpreet Singh, from Faridkot. Police also seized their white Swift car, which they were traveling in.

DGP Gaurav Yadav stated that the accused confessed to opening fire at a car accessories showroom in Phase 11, Mohali, on the night of December 1-2, with the intent to intimidate the shop owner and extort money. The attack was directed by their foreign-based handler, Daljit Singh alias Ninda, a history-sheeter who fled to the USA using fake documents.

Yadav added that the module had ties with the radical Arsh Dalla and was planning further crimes at his command. All arrested individuals have an extensive criminal record, with several cases registered against them. Investigations are continuing to uncover more individuals involved in this operation.

The AGTF, led by ADGP Promod Ban and supported by local police, utilized CCTV footage and technical evidence to swiftly identify and arrest the suspects. Further, Gagandeep was also wanted in a dacoity case in Amloh, while Vipanpreet had prior involvement in shooting incidents in Jalandhar and Faridkot.

A case has been registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act at SAS Nagar Police Station.