In a significant operation, the Counter Intelligence unit of Jalandhar, in coordination with SAS Nagar counterparts, has arrested two principal suspects involved in the IED (RDX) explosion at the Nalagarh Police Station in Himachal Pradesh, which occurred on January 1, 2026.

The arrested individuals have been named as Mahavir, also referred to as Kaka, and Manpreet, known as Mani, both hailing from SBS Nagar in Punjab. Authorities reported that during the operation, a 9mm Glock pistol along with live ammunition was confiscated from the suspects.

Connection to International Terrorist Organization

Initial investigations suggest that the accused were acting under the instructions of foreign masterminds, Gopi Nawashehria and Jassi Kulam, who are linked to the banned terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). It has been established that these individuals, together with their associates, received shipments containing IEDs and hand grenades directed by their overseas handlers. The explosives, including the IED used in the Nalagarh Police Station attack, were part of these shipments.

Previous Arrests and Ongoing Investigations

Earlier, Punjab Police detained six accomplices of the accused, who were reportedly involved in the logistics of transporting terrorist materials. The recent arrests of Mahavir and Manpreet are viewed as a crucial step in dismantling the entire network, according to law enforcement sources.

Commitment to Safety and Security

The Punjab Police have reaffirmed their dedication to neutralizing terrorism, disrupting organized crime operations, and maintaining peace and security throughout the state. In a separate operation, officials from the Amritsar Commissionerate recently dismantled a cross-border narco-smuggling network, arresting two individuals and seizing drug money amounting to Rs 21,800. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav noted that this investigation revealed connections to a Dubai-based handler facilitating the transport of heroin across borders.

Further Investigations in Progress

The handler involved in the narco-smuggling scheme has ties to multiple narcotics operations, including a significant NDPS case concerning 43 kg of heroin. A First Information Report has been filed at the Chheharta police station in Amritsar under the NDPS Act. Authorities have indicated that investigations will continue to trace the connections of this network, both forwards and backwards, to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing these threats to public safety.

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