In a significant development in the global fight against terrorism, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), along with Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), has arrested Harpreet Singh, also known as Happy Passia, a terrorist linked to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI)—a banned Khalistani extremist group—in Sacramento, USA.
Harpreet Singh was wanted in connection with multiple terror attacks in Punjab, India, including the 2024 Chandigarh grenade attack. According to the FBI, he entered the United States illegally and used burner phones to avoid detection.
“Today, Harpreet Singh, an alleged terrorist responsible for terror attacks in Punjab, India, was arrested by the FBI and ERO in Sacramento. Linked to two international terrorist groups, he entered the U.S. illegally and used burner phones to evade capture,” said FBI Sacramento in an official post on X.
Connection to BKI and Chandigarh Attack
On March 23, 2025, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had filed a chargesheet against Harpreet Singh and Pakistan-based terrorist Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, accusing them of orchestrating the September 2024 grenade attack in Chandigarh.
The attack targeted the residence of a retired Punjab Police officer, aiming to instill fear among law enforcement and civilians. Harpreet Singh and Rinda allegedly provided logistics, terror funds, and weapons to on-ground operatives Rohan Masih and Vishal Masih, who executed the attack.
The NIA invoked sections under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Explosive Substances Act, and other criminal laws in the case.
Broader Crackdown on BKI Network
Authorities in both India and abroad have intensified their crackdown on Babbar Khalsa International (BKI)—a designated terrorist organization by India, Canada, the US, and the UK. The group’s Khalistani separatist agenda has made it a high-priority target for intelligence agencies due to its cross-border support, including backing from Pakistan’s ISI.
In December 2024, Punjab Police had arrested five members of a BKI module, including mastermind Abhijot Singh, linked to grenade attacks in Batala and Gurdaspur.