5 Arrested in Amritsar ASI Firing Case Linked to Pakistan Handler
Amritsar Police arrest five suspects, including shooters, linked to the fatal firing incident involving ASI Jaswant Singh and a Pakistan-based handler.
The Amritsar Rural Police have successfully apprehended five individuals in connection with the high-profile firing incident that targeted Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Jaswant Singh. The investigation has uncovered a chilling connection, with authorities suggesting the operation was orchestrated by handlers operating from Pakistan.
The Fatal Encounter and Arrests
The crackdown follows a violent confrontation during a police operation. According to Inspector General of Police (Border Range) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, a joint team from the local police and the CIA unit was conducting a search operation in the Jhander area. During the operation, the team spotted a suspect on a motorcycle. When officers signaled him to stop, the individual launched a life-threatening attack by opening fire on the police personnel.
The shootout resulted in critical injuries to one of the suspects, Karanveer Nandi, a resident of Jyoti village. Nandi, who sustained bullet wounds to his leg and chest, was rushed to the Civil Hospital in Jandiala. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
The police have officially arrested five people involved in the case. This group includes:
- Karanveer Nandi: Identified as one of the primary shooters.
- Gurpreet (alias Gopi): Identified as the second shooter, also a resident of Jyoti village.
- Three accomplices: Individuals accused of providing shelter and harbouring the shooters.
Foreign Links and Motive Revealed
As the investigation deepens, the motive behind the attack has come to light. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kanwalpreet Singh Chahal stated that the suspects were lured into the operation through monetary incentives provided by handlers based abroad. Preliminary findings strongly indicate that these handlers are operating from Pakistan.
The violence has left the police department shaken. During the initial attack, ASI Jaswant Singh, who was posted with the Amritsar City Commissionerate, was shot while traveling home. Another officer narrowly escaped death when a bullet struck his bulletproof jacket, while a constable sustained a thigh injury.
Ongoing Investigation and Evidence Recovered
The police have successfully recovered several items from the scene of the crime, including:
- A motorcycle used by the suspect.
- Two pistols.
- Live cartridges.
Inspector General Bhullar emphasized that the investigation is far from over. Authorities are currently working to map out the entire network, identifying both underground and overground associates linked to the accused. The police are also tracing the movements of the suspects to determine where they stayed and who they contacted after attempting to evade custody. Further details are expected as the probe into this international link progresses.