NIA arrests UAE-based Babbar Khalsa handler in VHP leader's murder case

The National Investigation Agency on Thursday arrested a key accused in the killing of Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Vikas Prabhakar, saying he had allegedly provided logistical support and financing to those involved in the crime.The accused, Harwinder Kumar alias Sonu, was based in the UAE and had been declared wanted by the NIA. He was deported to India after what the agency described as vigorous diplomatic efforts, and was arrested on arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.The NIA said Kumar was produced before the Special NIA Court for legal proceedings.

The case relates to the targeted killing of Prabhakar in Punjab's Nangal by members of the proscribed Khalistai terrorist organisation Babbar Khalsa International.A case in connection with the killing was registered by the NIA on May 9, 2024. Three chargesheets have been filed so far in the matter. The latest arrest comes after another UAE-based accused, Manveer Ram, was arrested on August 13. Ram, who was allegedly involved in supplying the weapons used in the crime, was intercepted at Amritsar Airport.According to the agency, the investigation has revealed that the conspiracy to eliminate Prabhakar was allegedly hatched by Germany-based BKI operatives Harjit Singh alias Laddi and Kulbeer Singh alias Sidhu.

The probe has further established that Kumar, while operating from the UAE, played a crucial role as a logistics provider and financier for BKI operatives based abroad.The NIA said Kumar acted as a recruiter and handler, arranged weapons and facilitated their delivery to the shooters involved in Prabhakar's killing. It also alleged that he received and transferred terror funds linked to the conspiracy on the directions of Harjit Singh and Kulbeer Singh.The agency said Kumar's deportation was made possible through the efforts of the various agencies involved in bringing fugitives back to India, marking the latest development in the investigation into Prabhakar's killing.- Ends