Arrests and Recovery

Chandigarh Police on Sunday apprehended three persons in connection with the recovery of a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) and a firearm from an area behind the Sector-43 bus stand, officials said. The police also recovered other material suspected to be used for making explosive devices. An FIR has been registered at Police Station 36, and security arrangements at the site have been tightened while investigative agencies examine the recovered items.

"In a major operation, the police recovered suspicious items from behind the Sector-43 bus stand in Chandigarh. Chandigarh Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the case," the police said in a statement. They added that an investigation is underway and that further details may be shared as the probe progresses.

Details of the Accused

The suspects have been identified as Lovepreet Singh, 19, of Sarhali village in Tarn Taran district; Jashanpreet Singh, 21, of Deobath village in Tarn Taran; and Prabhpreet Singh, alias Prabh, 19, of Tarsikka village in Amritsar district, according to police. Two are from Tarn Taran, the third from Amritsar.

The Recovered Material

Police reported recovering around 5 kg of gelatin stick explosives, a detonator, a power source, and a remotely operated system, hidden inside a tiffin box bag. Some accounts also mention wires and electronic components. The recoveries also included a pistol, a magazine, and five live cartridges, as per the police.

The FIR, registered at the Sector 36 police station, was under relevant sections of the Explosives Act and the Arms Act, according to the police. One outlet reported that the FIR was registered under Sections 4(b) and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act.

The Investigation

Preliminary investigation suggests that the accused had allegedly come in contact with Satnam, alias Satta Naushera, a foreign-based handler associated with the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), according to police as reported by multiple outlets. They were allegedly acting on directions to plant an IED in Chandigarh with the intention of creating terror. However, one outlet, The Times of India, identified Satnam Satta as a Pakistan-based Khalistani terrorist and reported that police suspect the accused were planning a major terror-related strike in Punjab and Chandigarh.

Investigators are questioning the accused to establish how the explosives were procured, where they were being taken, and whether more people were involved. They are also checking the source of the explosive material and the wider network allegedly linked to the accused.

Security Measures and Public Reassurance

The police have said there is no need for panic and that necessary preventive measures are being taken to ensure public safety. They have advised residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or the police control room. Security was tightened across the city, according to one report, and the area was sealed.

Perspectives

Chandigarh Police: The police have emphasized that a major operation led to the recovery and arrests, and that the investigation is underway. They said there is no need for panic and that adequate security, surveillance, and preventive measures are in place. They reiterated their commitment to preventing attempts to disturb peace and public order.

Investigators: Preliminary findings indicate ties to a foreign-based handler associated with the pro-Khalistani terrorism group BKI. The investigation is focused on how the explosives were procured and stored, and the intended targets of the alleged plot.

Local residents: The public is advised to remain calm and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities, a precautionary measure taken in light of the incident.