Punjab Police Apprehend Two Suspects in BJP Headquarters Grenade Attack
In a significant development, Punjab Police made arrests on Thursday evening in connection with the grenade blast that occurred outside the Punjab BJP headquarters in Chandigarh. The suspects have been identified as Aman Singh, also known as Bholu, and Gurtej Singh, both hailing from Rattangarh village in the Rupnagar district.
Investigation Uncovers Smuggled Grenade and Drone Link
Initial police investigations have revealed that the explosive device used in the attack was a Chinese-made P-86 hand grenade. Authorities suspect that this grenade was illicitly smuggled into India from Pakistan using a drone. This incident is being viewed by law enforcement as part of a concerning series of grenade attacks targeting police stations across Punjab.
While the separatist group Babbar Khalsa has claimed responsibility for the assault, police officials have stated that they are yet to confirm this claim. No additional information about the suspects was available at the time of the initial report.
Detailed Account of the Attack and Escape
The grenade was hurled from a distance of approximately 25 to 30 feet, landing near the main gate of the BJP office. This area is typically used by visitors for parking vehicles. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, although the blast caused damage to a parked car and a scooter with its splinters.
Security at the location included a cabin for two CRPF sentries near the gate, with additional personnel on duty nearby. The boundary wall of the BJP office is notably low, standing at just 3 feet high with a 2-foot-high grill on top, which may have facilitated the attack.
After launching the grenade, the two suspects fled towards Sector 24 road, where they had parked a scooter and made their escape. Police believe the attackers arrived from Sector 36, parked their scooter, and approached the BJP office on foot. Surveillance footage captured them waiting for an opportune moment to strike.
Police Response and Ongoing Manhunt
Chandigarh SSP Kanwardeep Kaur has confirmed that multiple specialized teams, including the crime branch, Operation Cell, and District Crime Cell, are actively working on the case. Raids have been conducted across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh in pursuit of further leads.
The escape route of the suspects has been traced: after crossing the road between Sectors 37 and 24, they were seen sprinting towards the VIP area, which houses several judges. From there, they are suspected to have traveled via the Sector 37-38 road to Mohali through New Chandigarh.
Broader Implications and Security Concerns
This attack highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, particularly with the use of drones for smuggling explosives. The involvement of a Chinese-made grenade raises questions about cross-border illicit activities and the need for enhanced vigilance.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on verifying the claims of responsibility and dismantling any networks involved in such attacks. The public is urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to help prevent future incidents.
