Punjab Police denies the widespread reports of the arrest or detention of Khalistani leader Amritpal. The news of his arrest has been circulating in the media since this morning. In a statement, Punjab Police say the manhunt is on to nab the fugitive leader.
The Waris Punjab De (WPD) elements were the target of a huge state-wide cordon and search operation (CASO) that was initiated by the Punjab Police on Saturday. A total of 78 people have been arrested, and several others have been detained for interrogation.
Divulging more details, the official spokesperson of Punjab Police said that on Saturday afternoon, several activities of the WPD were intercepted by the police at the Shahkot-Malsian Road in Jalandhar district, and seven persons were arrested on the spot. Several others, including Amritpal Singh, are on the run, and a massive manhunt has been launched to nab them, he added.
During the state-wide operation, nine weapons, including one.315-caliber rifle, seven 12-caliber rifles, one revolver, and 373 live cartridges of different calibers, have been recovered so far.
The spokeswoman informed us that WPD elements are involved in four criminal cases relating to spreading disharmony among classes, attempting to murder, attacking police personnel, and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duties of public servants. Case FIR No. 39, dated February 24, 2023, stands registered against WPD elements for the attack on Ajnala Police Station, he added.
He said that all persons involved in criminal offenses shall be dealt with in accordance with the law, and all persons wanted by the police should offer themselves to the process of the law. Their constitutional rights to legal defense shall be protected, he added.
Meanwhile, all the citizens are requested not to pay heed to fake news and rumors. The 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.