New Delhi, India – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made a significant breakthrough by arresting a key suspect linked to the violent attacks on the Indian high commission in London last year. The agency revealed that Inderpal Singh Gaba, a UK resident, was taken into custody in Delhi for his alleged involvement in the attacks that occurred on March 19 and 22, 2023. This marks the first arrest in the case, shedding light on the events that unfolded at the high commission.
The attacks, orchestrated by over 2,000 pro-Khalistan supporters, involved the vandalism of the high commission building and the defacement of property. The protests were reportedly led by Avtar Singh Khanda, a UK-based Sikh radical associated with the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF). The incidents were believed to be retaliatory actions against Punjab police’s handling of Amritpal Singh, who is currently imprisoned in Assam.
According to NIA officials, the arrests are part of a wider conspiracy aimed at targeting Indian missions and officials. The agency’s investigation revealed connections to pro-Khalistani leaders in the UK, prompting heightened security measures and cooperation between Indian and UK authorities.
In an effort to gather evidence, an NIA team traveled to London in May 2023 with the assistance of Metropolitan police. The agency released CCTV footage of the attacks and identified at least 45 suspects involved in the March 19 incident. Look-out circulars (LOCs) have been issued for a dozen suspects, with more individuals expected to be identified through Gaba’s interrogation.
The NIA’s probe extends to Pakistani-backed pro-Khalistan leaders operating in the UK, with a focus on disrupting potential threats to Punjab’s stability. Key figures like Avtar Singh Khanda and Paramjit Singh Pamma, associated with radical groups like Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), are under scrutiny for their alleged roles in anti-India activities.
As investigations continue, officials remain vigilant against the radicalization of Sikh youth and the growing threats posed by extremist elements. The arrest of Inderpal Singh Gaba serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard Indian interests and combat terrorism on a global scale.