Terrorism – Punjab Police Thwarts Major Bomb Plot, Two Held in Mohali
Terrorism – Punjab Police has claimed a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts against terrorism after uncovering an alleged plot targeting important public infrastructure in Mohali. Acting on intelligence inputs, security agencies arrested two individuals and recovered a fully assembled explosive device believed to be ready for use.
Arrests Made During Intelligence-Led Operation
According to officials, the operation was carried out by the State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) in SAS Nagar. The two arrested men have been identified as 32-year-old Mani Singh from Gujjarpura in Amritsar and 28-year-old Abhishek Kumar, a resident of Gillwali Gate in Amritsar.
Police said both suspects were allegedly linked to a foreign-based terror operative. Their detention came after investigators received information suggesting that a conspiracy was being planned to target a sensitive location in the Mohali region.
Explosive Device Recovered
Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav stated that security teams recovered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) weighing approximately 2.5 kilograms. The device was reportedly assembled completely and was considered operational at the time of recovery.
Officials described the seizure as a crucial intervention that prevented a potentially serious threat to public safety. The recovered explosive was immediately secured, and precautionary measures were put in place to ensure there was no risk to nearby residents.
Suspects Travelled From Amritsar
Inspector General of Police (Counter Intelligence) Ashish Choudhary said preliminary findings indicate that the accused travelled from Amritsar to Mohali by bus while carrying the explosive device.
Police teams intercepted the suspects near a park located opposite YPS Chowk in Mohali. Following their apprehension, investigators conducted a search operation that led to the recovery of the explosive material.
Authorities are examining the movement of the accused and gathering additional evidence to determine the extent of the alleged conspiracy.
Bomb Disposal Squad Neutralises Threat
Soon after the explosive device was recovered, a specialised bomb disposal unit was called to the scene. The team followed established safety procedures and successfully neutralised the IED without any incident.
Officials confirmed that the device was dismantled in a controlled manner, preventing any possibility of accidental detonation. Security agencies also conducted a thorough assessment of the surrounding area as part of standard protocol.
Wider Network Under Investigation
Punjab Police has launched a detailed investigation to identify others who may have been involved in the alleged plot. Authorities are currently examining possible connections, including handlers, associates and additional links that may be connected to the case.
Senior officials said investigators are working to establish the full structure of the network and determine whether the suspects were acting on instructions from individuals operating outside the country.
A criminal case has been registered at the SSOC Police Station in SAS Nagar under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Explosive Substances Act. Further investigation remains in progress as security agencies continue efforts to uncover all aspects of the suspected terror conspiracy.