Punjab Police foil major terror plot in Mohali, two arrested with 2.5 kg RDX IED
Punjab Police arrested two alleged terror operatives in Mohali and recovered a fully assembled 2.5 kg RDX-based IED. The operation foiled a suspected terror plot targeting public infrastructure
PTC Web Desk: The Punjab Police have claimed to have foiled a major terror conspiracy with the arrest of two alleged operatives linked to a foreign-based terror handler and the recovery of a powerful improvised explosive device (IED) from their possession in Mohali.
The operation was carried out by the State Special Operations Cell (SSOC), SAS Nagar, which seized a fully assembled RDX-based IED weighing around 2.5 kg. According to police, the explosive device was ready for use and posed a serious threat to public safety.
The accused have been identified as Mani Singh (32), a resident of Gujjarpura, Amritsar, and Abhishek Kumar (28), a resident of Gillwali Gate, Amritsar.
Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said the recovery of the explosive device prevented a possible terror attack targeting important public infrastructure in SAS Nagar. He added that the timely action of the police averted what could have been a major security incident.
The arrests were made near a park opposite YPS Chowk in Mohali after intelligence agencies received specific inputs about the movement of the suspects. Preliminary investigation revealed that the duo had travelled from Amritsar to Mohali by bus while carrying the explosive device.
Following the recovery, a Bomb Disposal Squad was rushed to the scene. The team successfully neutralised and dismantled the IED by following standard safety procedures.
Inspector General of Police (Counter Intelligence) Ashish Choudhary said initial investigations suggest that Mani Singh had recently established contact with a foreign-based handler through social media. He later introduced his brother-in-law Abhishek Kumar to the same individual.
During their interactions, the handler allegedly promised financial support in exchange for carrying out terror-related assignments. The police believe the two suspects agreed to work for him due to financial hardships.
Investigators are now probing the wider network behind the conspiracy, including the role of foreign handlers and any local associates who may have been involved.
A case has been registered at SSOC Police Station, SAS Nagar, under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Explosive Substances Act. Further investigation is underway.