INDIA. Delhi: In a recent development, two prominent operatives affiliated with the Canada-based terrorist organization known as “Arsh Dala” were apprehended by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) immediately upon their arrival from Manila, Philippines, at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on Friday.
Identified as Manpreet Singh, also known as Peeta, and Mandeep Singh, both of whom carried non-bailable warrants issued by the NIA Delhi Court, the arrest took place upon their arrival from Manila, Philippines, according to an official statement by the NIA.
The NIA had taken the initiative to file a suo moto FIR (RC 37/2022 /NIA/DLI) on August 20, 2022, against the aforementioned individuals, invoking relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967. This action was taken in connection with their alleged involvement in the activities of proscribed terrorist groups within India.
Both Manpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh were found to be associated with the “Arsh Dala,” an outfit labeled as a “listed terrorist” organization based in Canada.
These individuals were closely connected to Arshdeep Singh Dala, who operates from Canada and is implicated in guiding and orchestrating terrorist actions, as well as advocating terrorism, violence, and large-scale extortion activities in India on behalf of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF).
The issuance of non-bailable arrest warrants against the suspects, Manpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh, was prompted by their alleged engagement in acts of terrorism, including threats, intimidation, and the financing of terror operations for the KTF.
Both originally hailing from Punjab, the duo had been residing in Manila. The NIA further noted that the pair also had several criminal cases registered against them in Punjab.
Upon investigating, the NIA uncovered that these accused individuals were actively involved in smuggling arms, ammunition, and explosives for the KTF from Pakistan.
They were also implicated in the recruitment of young individuals to carry out acts of violence and terrorism within the country, at the behest of the KTF.
Furthermore, the duo was identified as participants in an extensive extortion scheme designed to generate funds for both the KTF and Arsh Dala.
Their modus operandi involved selecting targets for extortion, often targeting businessmen, and coercing them into making substantial payments, according to the NIA’s findings.
Also Read: Pakistan: Explosions at Counter-terrorism Ammunition Store Kills at Least 13
