Punjab Police bust two ISI-backed terror modules, arrest nine including four minors

The Punjab Police have busted two cross-border terror modules allegedly linked to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), with the arrest of nine accused, including four juveniles. The operation was conducted by the Amritsar Commissionerate Police, according to Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav.

"In a major breakthrough, Amritsar Commissionerate Police busts two ISI-backed cross border terror modules, apprehends nine accused, including four juveniles, and recovers 3 illegal pistols, 4 petrol bottle bombs, and 9 live cartridges," Mr. Yadav said in a post on X on Tuesday.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the accused were acting at the behest of foreign-based ISI handlers. These handlers allegedly sought to recruit local youth for terror-related activities, including surveillance of security installations, procurement of illegal weapons, and actions aimed at disturbing public peace.

The investigation also uncovered the installation of surveillance cameras near railway tracks. Footage from these cameras is believed to have been shared with foreign handlers, raising concerns about the collection of intelligence on critical infrastructure. The police have not disclosed the exact locations of the cameras or the duration for which they were operational.

First Information Reports have been registered at Police Stations Mohkampura, Airport, and C-Division in Amritsar. The police are now working to identify remaining members of the network, establish forward and backward linkages, trace financial channels, and uncover any involvement in other terror-related activities, according to the DGP.

The involvement of minors in such modules is a serious concern. Legal experts note that juveniles accused of offences are dealt with under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, which emphasises rehabilitation and social reintegration while ensuring accountability. The ages of the four juveniles have not been disclosed, but they are all below 18 years.

Amritsar, being a border city, has historically faced challenges from cross-border terrorism. The city's rail network is a vital link, and any attempt to monitor it could pose risks to public safety. Over the past few years, security agencies have intercepted multiple attempts by foreign handlers to radicalise and mobilise local youth for unlawful activities.

The recovery of pistols, petrol bottle bombs, and live cartridges indicates that the modules had access to material that could be used to create violence. However, the police have not specified any particular target that was being planned. The DGP's post did not release the identities of the accused, as the investigation is ongoing.

Police have urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. They have also assured that the ongoing investigation will be thorough and that all legal procedures will be followed. Further details are expected as the probe progresses.