Amritsar, Punjab : In a major breakthrough, Counter Intelligence, Pathankot has foiled an alleged foreign based targeted killing plot and apprehended two operatives, recovering two sophisticated 30 bore pistols and 10 live cartridges from their possession, officials said.

On X Punjab Police posted read as, https://x.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/2098344279299309983

According to preliminary investigation, the accused were allegedly working at the behest of a foreign based handler and had recently arrived in India from Dubai to execute an assigned task.

Their apprehension is being seen as a significant success in the ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks operating through foreign handlers.

The recovery of the weapons and ammunition has prompted investigators to intensify efforts to establish the wider network behind the alleged conspiracy.

Agencies are examining the accused persons’ movements, contacts and communication links to determine the intended target and identify other individuals associated with the operation.

A case has been registered at the Police Station State Special Operation Cell (SSOC), Amritsar, and further investigation is underway.

Investigators are focusing on uncovering both the backward and forward linkages of the network, including identifying the foreign-based handlers, local facilitators and other operatives who may be connected with the alleged plot.

The development comes amid heightened efforts by security and law-enforcement agencies to track criminal networks with links outside the country and prevent attempts to carry out targeted violence in Punjab.

Punjab Police said it remains committed to dismantling such criminal networks and ensuring the safety and security of citizens.

Report – Mudasir Maqbool