In a significant move, the United Kingdom has for the first time deployed its new Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regime, imposing sanctions on a British Sikh businessman and his associated entities. The action aims to sever financial support to the pro-Khalistan militant group Babbar Khalsa.
Sanctions Target Businessman and Linked Groups
The UK Treasury announced on Thursday that it has frozen the assets of Gurpreet Singh Rehal, who is linked to the Panjab Warriors sports investment firm. Alongside the asset freeze, Rehal faces director disqualification sanctions, barring him from holding company directorships or managing businesses.
The Treasury stated it suspects Rehal of connections to organisations involved in terrorism within India. Specifically, authorities believe he is involved with Babbar Khalsa and Babbar Akali Lehar. His alleged activities include promoting and encouraging these groups, recruiting members, providing financial services, and supporting operations said to involve purchasing weapons and military equipment.
Landmark Action and Official Statements
Lucy Rigby, the UK's Economic Secretary, emphasized the gravity of this decision. "This landmark action shows we are prepared to use every tool at our disposal to choke off funding for terrorism – wherever it occurs and whoever is responsible," she said, as cited by PTI. "The UK stands firmly with peaceful communities against those who promote violence and hatred. We will not stand by while terrorists exploit Britain's financial system."
The sanctions extend beyond Rehal personally. They also cover entities connected to him, including:
- Saving Punjab
- Whitehawk Consultations Ltd
- The unincorporated association Loha Designs
All UK individuals and entities are now prohibited from dealing with any funds or assets tied to Rehal or Babbar Akali Lehar, or from offering them financial services. These restrictions apply to any organisations they own or control.
Legal Framework and Severe Penalties
This week's sanctions are the result of close coordination between the Treasury and UK law enforcement agencies. The action was taken under the Counter-Terrorism (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, which grants HM Treasury the power to freeze assets and impose restrictions on those suspected of terrorist involvement.
The UK government has classified Babbar Khalsa, also known as Babbar Khalsa International, as a proscribed terrorist organisation. It has assessed Babbar Akali Lehar as an "involved person" under the same regulations.
Breaching these sanctions carries severe consequences. Individuals or companies found in violation could face criminal prosecution leading to a prison sentence of up to seven years. Alternatively, they may receive a civil fine of up to £1 million or 50% of the value of the breach, whichever amount is higher.
This decisive step underscores the UK government's stated commitment to safeguarding national security and protecting communities impacted by terrorism, marking a new phase in its domestic counter-terrorism strategy.
