London, England (AP) – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) made a significant arrest in connection to the violent attack on the High Commission of India in London last year. Inderpal Singh Gaba, a resident of Hounslow, was apprehended for his involvement in unlawful activities during the protests that followed the attack, the NIA reported.
The NIA’s investigation uncovered that the incidents on March 19 and March 22 in London were part of a larger scheme to carry out aggressive assaults on Indian missions and officials. It was revealed that the attacks were a response to actions taken by Punjab Police against pro-Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh on March 18, 2023.
During the protests, Khalistani supporters pulled down the national flag at the Indian high commission in London. These actions sparked broader concerns and led to the NIA taking over the investigation from the Delhi police after a meeting between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and UK home office representatives in April.
The alleged mastermind behind the violence on March 19, Avtar Singh Khanda, who was the self-styled chief of the designated terror outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), passed away at a hospital in Birmingham weeks later. His death was seen as a setback for pro-Khalistani elements, as it disrupted their plans and operations.
Intelligence agencies suspected that Khanda was eliminated by individuals within the Khalistani movement, who viewed him as a liability following his exposed role in the attack on the Indian High Commission. The identification and apprehension of individuals involved in these activities underscore the complexity and international nature of the investigation.
The NIA’s efforts in dismantling these networks and holding individuals accountable for their actions are crucial in maintaining diplomatic relations and protecting the integrity of Indian missions abroad. The arrest of Inderpal Singh Gaba signifies a step forward in ensuring justice and accountability for those responsible for the violent attack in London. The ongoing probe continues to shed light on the intricacies of the conspiracy and the individuals involved in these unlawful activities.