Punjab Police Bust Moga Terror Plot, Arrest 17, IED, Glock Pistol Recovered

Punjab Police on Tuesday claimed to have busted a terror conspiracy in Moga with the arrest of 17 people and the recovery of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), explosive material, an electronic detonator and a 9mm Glock pistol.

Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the arrests were made as part of a major breakthrough by Moga Police. In a post on X, he said the operation had helped uncover a suspected terror network and prevent further attacks.

According to the police investigation, Iqbal Singh alias Ravi Dhaliwal, who is currently based in the United Kingdom and is allegedly involved in criminal activities, has been identified as the mastermind behind the conspiracy.

The police alleged that the accused acted on Dhaliwal's directions and carried out a grenade attack on Moga Sadar Police Station. The attack took place on July 8, although no injuries were reported.

Investigators further claimed that the group was planning to plant an IED on a train travelling from Ferozepur to Jammu. The recovery of the explosive device and other materials is being viewed as a significant development in the investigation.

An FIR has been registered at Moga Sadar Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Explosive Substances Act, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

Police said the investigation remains underway and efforts are being made to trace the wider network, establish the role of each accused and identify other individuals who may have been involved in the alleged conspiracy.

The latest arrests come amid heightened security concerns over attempts by terror networks to carry out attacks in Punjab. Authorities are now examining the links of the arrested suspects and the alleged overseas connections behind the conspiracy.