Gurdaspur grenade attack: Three militants killed.
Three Accused Identified in Gurdaspur Grenade Attack
The recent grenade attack in Gurdaspur has brought attention to three individuals identified as members of the Khalistan Zindabad Force, who were killed in an encounter in Pilibhit. The accused have been named as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), all hailing from Gurdaspur, Punjab.
Gurvinder Singh, aged 25, was believed to be the group’s leader, coordinating its activities and acting as a liaison between the organization and its handlers abroad. His involvement in the attack, according to preliminary investigations, stemmed from deep-rooted ideological beliefs and his active role in radicalizing and recruiting younger members.
Virender Singh, also known as Ravi, was just 23 years old. Authorities suspect he played a logistical role, arranging for weapons and explosive materials used in the attack. Known for his technical skills, Ravi’s contribution was instrumental in executing the plans.
Jaspreet Singh, who went by the alias Pratap Singh, was the youngest of the group at just 18 years old. His involvement highlights concerns about the increasing radicalization of youth in sensitive regions. Jaspreet was allegedly drawn into the Khalistan movement through social media and local propaganda.
The three individuals were intercepted in Pilibhit during a coordinated operation by the security forces. The encounter, described as a swift and tactical response, resulted in the neutralization of the suspects.
The incident has raised alarms about the resurgence of militancy in Punjab and the active recruitment of local youth by extremist outfits. Security agencies are intensifying their efforts to dismantle these networks, focusing on monitoring online platforms and strengthening border security to curb the smuggling of weapons and contraband.
This tragic episode underscores the urgent need for community awareness and preventive measures to counter extremism.
Major Breakthrough: Three Khalistan Zindabad Force Suspects Killed in Encounter
In a joint operation by the Uttar Pradesh and Punjab police, three terror suspects allegedly involved in the recent grenade attack in Gurdaspur were killed in an early morning encounter on December 23, 2024, in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh. Punjab’s Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav, hailed the operation as a significant breakthrough in dismantling the Pakistan-sponsored Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) module responsible for sowing terror in the region.
Background of the Attack
The grenade attack in Gurdaspur sent shockwaves through the state, prompting intensified efforts by law enforcement to identify and apprehend the culprits. Investigations quickly pointed to the involvement of the KZF, a group known for its separatist agenda and allegiance to Pakistan-based handlers.
The operation in Pilibhit was the culmination of extensive intelligence gathering and coordination between the two state police forces. The suspects were reportedly cornered in a hideout when the joint team moved in, leading to an exchange of fire.
Profiles of the Accused
- Gurvinder Singh (25): Gurvinder was believed to be the leader of the trio, playing a pivotal role in coordinating with handlers across the border. Known for his connections within the KZF, he was instrumental in planning and executing the Gurdaspur attack. Gurvinder had been on the radar of security agencies for his involvement in previous extremist activities.
- Virender Singh alias Ravi (23): Virender, also known as Ravi, was considered the logistical backbone of the group. He reportedly arranged the explosives and weapons used in the Gurdaspur attack. Investigators believe he maintained contact with suppliers and facilitated the movement of contraband across state lines.
- Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18): The youngest of the trio, Jaspreet was allegedly radicalized through online propaganda and local networks. His involvement highlights the growing vulnerability of youth to extremist ideologies. Authorities suspect he was responsible for reconnaissance and provided ground-level support for the group’s activities.
The Encounter
The operation unfolded in the early hours of December 23 when intelligence inputs led the joint police team to a remote location in Pilibhit. Upon being challenged, the suspects opened fire, resulting in a brief but intense gunfight. The security forces responded decisively, neutralizing all three suspects.
The encounter was a tactical success, demonstrating the effectiveness of inter-state collaboration in combating organized terror modules. Police recovered weapons, explosives, and incriminating documents from the scene, further implicating the suspects in the Gurdaspur attack.
Implications and Reactions
Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav commended the efforts of the joint team, calling the operation a significant milestone in countering Pakistan-sponsored terror activities. It sends a clear message to those attempting to destabilize our state and nation,” Yadav said.
The operation has drawn attention to the resurgence of militancy in Punjab and the increasing reliance on cross-border support by groups like the KZF. Security experts warn of the growing use of online platforms and social media to radicalize youth and coordinate terror activities.
Way Forward
The successful operation underscores the importance of robust intelligence-sharing mechanisms and inter-agency cooperation in tackling terror networks. Authorities are now focusing on dismantling the broader network supporting the KZF, including its funding and recruitment pipelines.
Efforts are also underway to enhance community awareness and resilience against extremist ideologies. Programs aimed at de-radicalization and youth engagement are critical in preventing vulnerable individuals from being drawn into the orbit of terror organizations.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by Pakistan-sponsored modules like the KZF. While the encounter marks a victory for law enforcement, it also highlights the need for sustained vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard the nation’s security.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims of the Gurdaspur attack and preventing similar incidents in the future. The joint operation in Pilibhit stands as a testament to the unwavering resolve of India’s security forces in the face of evolving terror threats.