The Punjab Police have announced the dismantling of a major extortion racket allegedly orchestrated by USA-based gangster Gurdev Jassal, leading to the arrest of two individuals directly involved. The crackdown, which was confirmed by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav via social media, reflects the state’s aggressive stance against organized crime.
On February 23, 2025, Punjab Police apprehended Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Surjit Singh, who was stationed in Batala, and Ankus Maini, marking significant progress following the preliminary investigations aligned with this criminal syndicate. Authorities also reported recovering ₹83 lakh cash, illegal firearms, and luxury vehicles linked to the illicit operations.
The issues date back to February 4, when associates of Jassal reportedly opened fire at the petrol pump owned by a businessman from Kalanaur. This brazen attack was part of their strategy to intimidate the victim and extort funds. According to DGP Yadav, after receiving repeated threat calls and being coerced for ₹1 crore, the businessman succumbed to the pressure and paid ₹50 lakh on February 11.
"Punjab Police is fully committed to eradicate organised crime and maintain peace & harmony in the state," DGP Yadav stated, underscoring the department's resolve against such organized activities. The police's investigation unveiled the chilling modus operandi of Jassal’s gang, which included using foreign phone numbers to threaten victims and orchestrate payments through numerous intermediaries.
Surjit Singh’s involvement as part of the police force has raised ethical concerns within law enforcement. His association with the racketeering led to his dismissal from service under Article 311(2) of the Indian Constitution. The other arrested individual, Ankus Maini, has been identified as residing in Kalanaur, Gurdaspur.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Batala) Suhail Qasim Mir elaborated on the operation, recounting how intelligence reports had sparked concern over local law enforcement’s collusion with extortionists. "Following the input, we launched an operation which directly led to Surjit Singh's arrest," said Mir.
During the investigation, Singh admitted to hiding cash at his Batala residence. Upon search, police recovered ₹76.32 lakh stashed away. The dismissed officer claimed the money was transferred from his son, who resides in the USA. Yet technical investigations revealed this connection to be more sinister.
Further probing tracked down Ankus Maini, who confessed his involvement, admitting the money retrieved was extracted through extortion on behalf of Gurdev Jassal. The police also confiscated ₹5.91 lakh and illegal firearms, including a .32 bore pistol with two cartridges, from Maini’s possession. His vehicle, identified as a black Mahindra Scorpio, was also impounded.
The case has been formally lodged under Section 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, with additional charges stemming from the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act being considered. Echoing the seriousness of this operation, DGP Yadav affirmed the need for continued investigations to unravel the full spectrum of Jassal's network.
Jassal's gang's operation poses significant challenges to the law enforcement agency’s diligence concerning organized crime. The extent of corruption reportedly reached high levels, considering the personal links established even within the police force.
"After continuous threat calls and demand of ₹1 crore, the businessman eventually paid ₹50 lakh on February 11," noted DGP Yadav, stressing the pressures face by victims under these extortion schemes. Authorities aim to strengthen the integrity of Punjab’s policing system, indicating thorough vetting and rigorous accountability for any officers exceeding their bounds.
The investigation continues as Punjab Police forges forward, remedying their tactics against organized crime and assuring the public of their safety. With each bust, they show dedication not only to reforming their image but also to providing the citizens of Punjab with peace from rampant crime and corruption.
This extensive crackdown demonstrates Punjab Police's resolve to confront and dismantle the deep-rooted networks of organized crime, reflecting their commitment to uphold law and order.