Ludhiana: In a coordinated crackdown against organised crime syndicates, the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of Punjab Police, alongside the Ludhiana Commissionerate Police, arrested two key operatives of an extortion network. During the joint operation, law enforcement recovered a 9mm Glock pistol and 20 live cartridges from the possession of the suspects.
Initial findings indicate that the arrested individuals were in constant contact with foreign-based handlers who orchestrated their logistical movements. Investigators revealed that the suspects were assigned a specific target in the Chandigarh–Mohali urban corridor and were actively preparing to stage a targeted firing incident intended to intimidate a business establishment or individual for extortion. The timely interception neutralised the impending attack before the weapon could be deployed.
Following the seizure, an FIR was registered at Police Station Division No. 8 in Ludhiana under the Arms Act and relevant provisions of the law. Police officials noted that ballistic examination of the firearm and digital analysis of the recovered devices are underway to trace communication channels with overseas planners, determine the precise target, and uncover other local sleeper associates tied to the network.
