Chandigarh: Punjab Police has made a significant breakthrough in its investigation into transnational organised crime with the deportation and arrest of three alleged operatives linked to the Davinder Bambiha gang from Malaysia.
The action was carried out by the Overseas Fugitive Tracking and Extradition Cell (OFTEC) of the Counter Intelligence Wing, with assistance from central agencies.
The three suspects — Jaspreet Singh alias Jas Behbal, Ajay Singh and Pawandeep Singh — were taken into custody at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi after arriving in India. They are being brought to Punjab for further investigation.
Wanted in multiple criminal cases
According to Punjab Police, the three men are wanted in several serious cases involving allegations of murder, extortion and offences involving explosives.
Investigators are also examining their alleged role in a planned hand-grenade attack in Ludhiana. Police have said the case has links to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
The deportation is being viewed by the state police as an important step in tracking fugitives allegedly operating from outside India and dismantling criminal networks with overseas connections.
OFTEC tracks suspects abroad
The operation involved coordination between Punjab Police and central agencies to locate and secure the deportation of the wanted individuals from Malaysia.
After their arrival at Delhi airport, the suspects were arrested and are being taken to Punjab, where investigators are expected to question them about their alleged activities, criminal cases and links with other members of organised crime networks.
Police vows continued action
Punjab Police said the latest arrests demonstrate its continued focus on fugitives involved in transnational organised crime.
The force maintained that geographical distance would not prevent law-enforcement agencies from pursuing wanted suspects and bringing them back to face investigation and legal proceedings in India.
The questioning of the three accused is expected to provide investigators with further information about the alleged network, its activities and possible links operating across international borders.
