Amritpal Singh's four close aides taken to Dibrugarh, Assam

Chandigarh, March 19: In a major development in Punjab Police's operation against 'Waris Punjab De' chief Amritpal Singh, his four close aides have been taken to Dibrugarh, Assam.

According to information received, a special Punjab police team comprising 27 personnel took Amritpal's aides to Assma by a special air force plane.

As per sources, the arrested persons will be kept in Dibrugarh jail.

Earlier, Jalandhar Commissioner Kuldeep Singh Chahal confirmed that the chief of the pro-Khalistan outfit 'Waris Punjab De' Amritpal Singh has been declared a "fugitive". This development comes shortly after the radical leader was said to be on the run.

Moreover, Amritpal's two cars have been seized and gunmen are nabbed.

"We also checked to see if his security escorts' firearms were legally obtained. A case has been registered. Punjab Police have launched a manhunt for Amritpal Singh and we are hopeful that he will be arrested soon. A total of 78 people have been arrested so far and further searches and raids are underway," Chahal said during a media interview.

Earlier on Saturday, Punjab Police launched a massive state-wide Cordon And Search Operation (CASO) against Waris Punjab De (WPD) elements, against whom several criminal cases have been filed.

So far, 78 people have been arrested as part of the operation, and several others have been detained for questioning.

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According to the official spokesperson of the Punjab Police, "Several WPD activities were intercepted by police on the Shahkot-Malsian Road in Jalandhar district on Saturday afternoon, and seven people were arrested on the spot. A massive manhunt has been launched to apprehend several others, including Amritpal Singh."

"So far, nine weapons have been recovered during the statewide operation, including one.315 bore rifle, seven 12 bore rifles, one revolver, and 373 live cartridges of various calibres," an officer said.

According to the spokesperson, WPD members are involved in four criminal cases involving spreading discord among classes, attempting to murder, attacking police officers, and impeding the lawful discharge of public servants' duties.

"Case FIR No. 39 dated 24-02-2023 stands registered against WPD elements for the attack on Ajnala Police Station," he further informed.

He stated that all people involved in criminal offences would be dealt with according to the law and that anyone wanted by the police should offer to the legal process. Their constitutional rights to legal representation will be safeguarded, he added.

Meanwhile, the police have asked all citizens not to believe fake news or rumours.

"Situation in the state is completely stable. All persons indulging in mischievous activities for disturbing peace and harmony in the state shall be dealt with strictly."

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