Amritpal on the run as Punjab police launch crackdown against Khalistan sympathiser, his supporters
Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, March 18
Punjab Police on Saturday launched a massive statewide Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) in the state against elements of Waris Punjab De (WPD) against whom several criminal cases stand registered.
Police said ‘Waris Punjab De’ chief Amritpal Singh continues to be on the run and a massive manhunt has been launched to nab them.
Earlier, there were reports that Amritpal has been arrested. The police cleared the confusion surrounding his arrest.
Meanwhile, Internet services have been suspended in Punjab till Sunday noon, according to the state home department officials.
During the operation, a total of 78 persons have been arrested so far, while, several others have been detained for questioning.
Divulging more details, official spokesperson of Punjab Police said on Saturday afternoon, several activities of 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 statewide operation, nine weapons, including one .315 bore rifle, seven rifles of 12 bore, one revolver and 373 live cartridges of different caliber have been recovered so far.
Meanwhile, Qaumi Morcha activists blocked a key road near Sohana Chowk in Mohali in support of Amritpal. Nearly, 100 to 150 activists were protesting at the site.
Amid crackdown on the outfit, Punjab Police asked people to maintain peace and harmony. “Request all citizens to maintain peace & harmony Punjab Police is working to maintain Law & Order. Request citizens not to panic or spread fake news or hate speech,” it said in a tweet.
Request all citizens to maintain peace & harmony
Punjab Police is working to maintain Law & Order
Request citizens not to panic or spread fake news or hate speech pic.twitter.com/gMwxlOrov3
— Punjab Police India (@PunjabPoliceInd) March 18, 2023
The police spokesperson said WPD elements are involved in four criminal cases relating to spreading disharmony among classes, attempt to murder, attack on police persons and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duties of public servants. Case FIR No. 39 dated 24-02-2023 stands registered against WPD elements for the attack on Ajnala Police Station, he added.
He said all persons involved in criminal offences shall be dealt in accordance with law and all persons wanted by the police should offer themselves to the process of law. Their constitutional rights of legal defence shall be protected, he added.
