In a significant victory against transnational terrorism, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have successfully extradited a key operative of the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This development marks a crucial step in India’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and ensure justice for those affected by the group’s violent activities.
Tarsem Singh is a pivotal figure in orchestrating Babbar Khalsa International’s terrorist activities in India, including masterminding the rocket-propelled grenade attack on the Punjab Police intelligence headquarters.
On Friday, federal agencies, in conjunction with Interpol, successfully extradited the notorious Khalistani terrorist Tarsem Singh to India after finalizing the necessary formalities in the UAE. Tarsem Singh is the brother of Lakhbir Landa, the Canada-based leader of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Upon his arrival in India, he was immediately taken into custody by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) hailed the extradition as a significant triumph against the pro-Khalistan terror network. In a statement, the NIA declared, “Singh, a resident of Tarn Taran in Punjab and the biological brother of designated terrorist Lakhbir Landa, has been subject to a non-bailable warrant (NBW) since June 2023.”
Babbar Khalsa terrorist Tarsem Singh. (File Photo)
The agency further stated, “He was a crucial member of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and a significant operative for designated terrorists Harwinder Singh Rinda (operating from Pakistan) and Landa (operating from Canada) in the UAE.”
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) revealed that Singh had been geolocated in the UAE, prompting an NIA security mission to travel there to secure his extradition. Both agencies coordinated with Interpol in Abu Dhabi to facilitate his return.
A red notice had been issued for him in November of last year, leading to his apprehension by authorities that same month.
“Ultimately, on Friday, he was extradited from the UAE to India in full compliance with Interpol’s protocols,” the NIA stated.
According to the NIA, Singh was “actively engaged in arranging and supplying terrorist funds to the India-based associates of Rinda and Landa. He also facilitated the transfer of these funds through multiple channels.”
The anti-terror investigation agency had initiated a case suo motu on August 20, 2022, to investigate the terrorist activities of leaders and members of proscribed organizations, such as the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), which have established an extensive network of terror operatives across India.
As India continues to grapple with the challenges posed by terrorism, the extradition of this Babbar Khalsa terrorist marks a pivotal moment in its efforts to safeguard its citizens and maintain national security. The proactive measures taken by Indian agencies, in collaboration with international partners, underscore a broader commitment to eradicating terrorism and fostering a safer, more secure global environment.