In a significant security breakthrough, the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) and Punjab Police carried out a joint operation early on Thursday morning, successfully arresting Lajar Masih, an active terrorist affiliated with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). This operation took place in the Kokhraj police station area of Kaushambi district, a region in Uttar Pradesh. Lajar Masih, a resident of Kurlian village in Punjab’s Amritsar district, was apprehended around 3:20 am.

Terrorist's Ties to BKI and ISI

The arrested terrorist has direct links with Pakistan’s ISI operatives, which raises concerns about the growing cross-border terrorist activities. According to Amitabh Yash, the Additional Director General of Police (UP STF, Law and Order), Lajar Masih was working for Swarn Singh alias Jeevan Fauji, the head of a Germany-based module of Babbar Khalsa International. This international connection highlights the increasing reach of BKI’s activities across multiple countries, involving coordination with Pakistani-based terrorist networks.

Masih's connection to Swarn Singh, a key player in the BKI network, and his direct communication with ISI operatives reflect a broader geopolitical dimension to the terrorist activities. These links could potentially facilitate terrorist planning and execution with international ramifications, further complicating the fight against terrorism in the region.

Weapons and Explosives Seized

During the operation, the UP STF was able to recover significant amounts of explosive materials and illegal weapons from Lajar Masih. The seized items included:

• Three live hand grenades
• Two live detonators
• One foreign-made pistol
• Thirteen foreign-made cartridges

Additionally, a white-colored explosive powder, a mobile phone without a SIM card, and a seized Aadhaar card with a Ghaziabad address were found in his possession. The explosives and weapons pose a serious threat, indicating that Masih was potentially involved in planning terrorist activities in India.

Escaped from Judicial Custody

Lajar Masih’s capture is particularly significant as he had escaped from judicial custody in Punjab on September 24, 2024. His escape marked him as a high-priority target for law enforcement agencies. This recent arrest closes a chapter of his evasion from law and brings him back into custody, where he is now facing severe charges for his role in terrorist activities.

The recovery of sensitive materials, including the explosives and the links to the ISI, underscores the urgency of addressing terrorist modules operating not only within India but also internationally. This operation marks a decisive action in dismantling the operational capacity of Babbar Khalsa International and other linked networks.

The Growing Threat of Cross-Border Terrorism

The UP STF and Punjab Police’s joint effort highlights the importance of collaborative counterterrorism measures across state and national borders. With terror groups like Babbar Khalsa International operating across several countries, including Germany and Pakistan, it is evident that India’s security agencies must work together with international counterparts to combat these transnational threats.

In the broader context of national security, the presence of ISI links further underscores the critical need for continued vigilance and a strategic approach to counter terrorism. The arrest of Lajar Masih and the successful operation have disrupted a potential terrorist plot and thwarted a major threat. The collaboration between state police forces and specialized agencies like the STF is vital in safeguarding India’s security and addressing the evolving nature of terrorism.

This operation also exemplifies how India is strengthening its security framework through inter-state cooperation and intelligence-sharing with national and international agencies. As terror groups continue to evolve, the proactive efforts by law enforcement will play a key role in preventing further acts of terrorism and ensuring the safety of citizens.

In conclusion, the arrest of Lajar Masih is a significant step forward in India’s counterterrorism efforts, highlighting the importance of joint operations and the need for continued vigilance against the growing threats posed by terrorist organizations with international networks.

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