Jeevan Fauji-linked terror network targeted vulnerable Punjab youth: Police

The Counter Intelligence (CI) wing in Amritsar has uncovered an alarming grassroots recruitment pattern after busting a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) module allegedly operating under the directions of ISI-backed gangster-turned-terrorist Jeevan Fauji.

Investigations have revealed how vulnerable village youth were first lured through casual cricket matches before being pushed into drug smuggling and eventually tasked with transporting explosives.

Ajay (19), a resident of Bazigar Mohalla in Ajnala, and Jobanbir Singh (21) reportedly came into contact with the network while playing cricket in their locality.

The police said what began as harmless village cricket matches gradually evolved into a logistics chain for a foreign-backed terror network. Another youth from the same circle allegedly introduced them to the handlers, promising easy money. He has also been nominated in the case and a hunt is underway to arrest him, the police said.

Initially, Ajay and Jobanbir were allegedly asked to deliver small packets of suspected narcotics. For each delivery, they were paid between Rs 5,000 and Rs 7,000 and were also given small quantities of drugs to sell locally. Investigators believe this was a deliberate tactic to trap unemployed and vulnerable youth.

The operation escalated when the duo was allegedly instructed to transport two round-shaped packets wrapped in foam, which were later identified as hand grenades. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, CI teams intercepted the youths before the consignment could reach its destination. The grenades were reportedly intended to disturb peace and target key establishments in Punjab.

The police claimed the grenades were smuggled at the behest of Jeevan Fauji, who allegedly continues to operate modules in Punjab using narcotics and criminal networks. Fauji already faces multiple criminal cases, including extortion and attempted murder.

According to reliable inputs, foreign handlers had supplied the grenades and directed the duo to coordinate with another associate in the Loharka Road area of Amritsar. A naka was laid and the suspects were intercepted while travelling on a motorcycle, which was also impounded.

Officials believe the case highlights a dangerous trend — the use of local sports groups and friend circles to identify and recruit vulnerable youth into terror-linked smuggling operations.

“The recovery of grenades points to a larger conspiracy aimed at destabilising Punjab,” said a senior police official on condition of anonymity. Ajay and Jobanbir remain in police custody for further interrogation.