Chandigarh | April 18, 2025: In a major breakthrough that could tilt the scales in Punjab’s long-drawn battle against cross-border terrorism, Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, one of the most wanted terror operatives, has reportedly been detained by US security agencies. Passia, a native of Passia village in Ajnala, Amritsar, had been orchestrating a wave of violence in Punjab while hiding abroad.
According to high-level sources, his detention on Thursday has brought a sigh of relief to both Punjab Police and national security agencies, especially given his alleged involvement in over 16 grenade attacks, including the high-profile Chandigarh Sector 10 attack in 2024.
A Trail of Terror: From Ajnala to America
Passia’s journey from a rural village in Punjab to becoming a global threat is chilling. Known for his deep-rooted connections with international terror networks, he was not just a local gang member—but a transnational operative.
He allegedly entered the United States illegally in 2021 through a human trafficking route. Once on American soil, he continued to direct a series of attacks and crimes in India, making him a ghost-like figure that Punjab Police found nearly impossible to trace.
The Attacks That Shocked Punjab
Chandigarh Sector 10 Attack (September 2024)
The grenade attack on the residence of former Jalandhar SP Jaskirat Singh Chahal and his family was coordinated from the US, using local operatives. CCTV footage and forensic evidence eventually led investigators to Passia’s command center abroad.
Raimal Village Attack
In another brazen move, a grenade was hurled at a constable’s home in Raimal village, Punjab. Soon after, Passia claimed responsibility via social media, mocking police efforts and sending a chilling message to authorities.
16 Targeted Grenade Attacks
His name has been consistently linked to attacks on police posts, religious establishments, and homes of political figures—including a grenade assault on BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia’s residence.
The Moosewala Connection
One of the most alarming revelations came when investigators found possible links between Passia’s network and the 2022 murder of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. While the case is still under investigation, sources believe that Passia’s terror modules provided logistical support and arms for the crime.
Master of Evasion and Digital Warfare
What made Passia a nightmare for law enforcement was his use of untraceable mobile phones with rotating country codes. These tactics, along with encrypted messaging apps and virtual private networks (VPNs), helped him stay one step ahead of investigators.
Additionally, he used social media platforms to boast about his actions, sending out threats and propaganda—further aggravating his notoriety.
Terror Modules and Pakistani Links
Alongside Pakistan-based gangster-turned-terrorist Harwinder Singh Rinda, Passia is believed to have established multiple terror modules in Punjab. These cells were engaged in everything from arms smuggling and extortion to planned assassinations and grenade attacks.
Both were charge-sheeted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in several cases, including the 2024 Chandigarh grenade attack.
What’s Next? Extradition on the Table
While US authorities have yet to make an official statement, discussions around extraditing Passia to India are expected to gain momentum. Indian agencies are preparing fresh dossiers and diplomatic channels are reportedly active to bring the accused back to face trial.
Conclusion: A Turning Point in Punjab’s Security Battle
The arrest of Happy Passia marks a significant win in the fight against terrorism that stretches far beyond Punjab’s borders. It is a reminder of how digital footprints, global coordination, and intelligence sharing can help dismantle even the most elusive criminal empires.
For now, Punjab can breathe a little easier, knowing one of its most dangerous enemies is finally behind bars.
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