Bulletproof jackets in criminal hands raise alarm for police

The recovery of bulletproof jackets from criminals involved in extortion-related firing incidents and other serious offences has raised major concerns for the police. The seizure suggests that gangsters, acting at the behest of their foreign handlers, are preparing for deadlier confrontations with law enforcement.

Earlier, the police recovered a significant cache of foreign-made pistols and explosives, including hand grenades, smuggled into the border state by anti-national elements across the border. But the latest development has further alarmed officials. The trend of gangsters purchasing or acquiring bulletproof jackets indicates an escalation in their preparedness to take on both rival groups and the police, said a police officer who requested anonymity.

On Friday, the city police arrested Baljit Singh, who along with his accomplices had snatched cash and a gold bracelet from a readymade garment shop on Sultanwind Road on Thursday. A bulletproof jacket and a Glock pistol were recovered from his possession, hinting at the possibility of a major crime being planned. Assistant Commissioner of Police Gagandeep Singh confirmed that Baljit is being questioned on several crucial aspects to trace the origin and intended use of the gear.

According to a senior official, Baljit claimed he had snatched the foreign pistol and the bulletproof jacket from operatives linked to notorious overseas-based gangster Happy Jatt. Investigators are also probing his suspected involvement in the recent murder of Jandiala councillor Harjinder Singh Brahman in the Chheharta area.

Police officials say the presence of bulletproof jackets in the hands of gangsters is deeply worrying, especially at a time when encounters with armed criminals are becoming more frequent in Punjab. Such protective gear could make future face-offs more challenging and dangerous for police teams.

Officials also pointed out a rise in the sale of bulletproof jackets among civilians. Jewellery traders, goldsmiths and certain businessmen are reportedly purchasing these jackets online, where they are available for prices ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000. Officers say people are buying them not as a status symbol but out of rising concerns for personal safety.