New Delhi: In a groundbreaking move, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a key suspect linked to the violent attack on the Indian high commission in London last year. Identified as Inderpal Singh Gaba, residing in Hounslow, United Kingdom, the arrest was made upon his arrival in Delhi based on a lookout circular previously issued against him.
This development marks a significant step as it represents the first instance where a British resident has been arrested for a crime committed within the UK’s jurisdiction. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies of both countries is highlighted by this arrest, signaling a growing coordination to prevent future security breaches, disrespect to Indian interests overseas, or threats against the Indian flag.
According to a senior officer, NIA’s ongoing investigation suggests that the incidents in London on March 19 and 22, 2023, were part of a larger conspiracy aimed at launching severe attacks on Indian missions and officials. These attacks were reportedly in retaliation to the actions taken by Punjab Police against Amritpal Singh, a pro-Khalistan separatist who was arrested in March of the previous year.
The assault on the high commission involved approximately 50 individuals trespassing, defiling the Indian flag, causing property damage, and injuring officials. The orchestrators behind this attack were identified as Gurcharan Singh, Dal Khalsa, UK; Avtar Singh Khanda of KLF, Jasvir Singh, and their accomplices, both domestic and foreign nationals.
To further investigate the incident, an NIA team visited the UK in May 2023. Following this, a crowd-sourcing initiative was launched to gather information on UK-based entities and individuals involved in the attack, leading to the identification of many attackers. Several lookout circulars were issued as part of an intensive manhunt.