Batala: Punjab Police have arrested a third person allegedly linked to the grenade attack on a police post in Batala, marking a significant development in the investigation into the incident.
The arrest was carried out by Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar, in coordination with Batala Police, during an intelligence-based operation. Investigators suspect that the accused was working as part of a terror module allegedly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and operated by a Portugal-based member of the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) network.
Attack on Police Post Under Investigation
According to preliminary findings, the arrested suspect was allegedly involved in the attack on Police Post Urban Estate, Batala, on August 1, 2026.
Investigators suspect that the attack was carried out on the instructions of a handler based in Portugal. The latest arrest is expected to help investigators establish the broader structure of the alleged module and determine the role played by other members.
Suspect Allegedly Planned Further Attacks
Police said the accused went into hiding following the Batala incident. Preliminary investigation has further indicated that he was allegedly preparing to target additional police establishments in different parts of Punjab.
Officials are now examining the accused’s movements, communications and links with other suspected members of the network.
Probe Focuses on Foreign Handlers and Local Network
The investigation has been expanded to identify the alleged foreign-based handlers as well as individuals providing local logistical or other forms of support.
Counter Intelligence and Batala Police are also working to establish both the forward and backward linkages of the alleged conspiracy, including how the module was formed, who coordinated its activities and whether it was connected to other incidents.
Police said the investigation is ongoing and further arrests cannot be ruled out as the alleged network is being mapped.
The Punjab Police reiterated that dismantling terror networks and disrupting organised criminal activity remain among its priorities, with the department stating that it will continue intelligence-led operations to safeguard public security across the state.
