The Mohali Police have rescued journalist Gurpyar Singh of Hamdard TV Channel within 12 hours of his abduction and arrested one of the accused. The operation, was executed under the supervision of Senior Superintendent of Police (SAS Nagar) Harmandeep Singh Hans, and coordinated with multiple police units across districts.
Briefing the media, SSP Hans said that Gurpyar Singh was kidnapped on the evening of November 4, around 7pm, from his office in Nawan Gaon by three unidentified men dressed in Nihang attire. Acting promptly on the report, the police launched a multi-district operation involving the CIA Mohali, AGTF, and police teams from Faridkot, Bathinda, and Chandigarh. “The kidnapped journalist was traced and rescued safely, and one of the accused was apprehended within 12 hours of the incident,” Hans said.
The case was registered at Nawan Gaon Police Station following a complaint by Manpreet Kaur, sister of the victim. She stated that the kidnapping was linked to a land dispute involving a payment of Rs 12 lakh. According to her statement, Gurpyar Singh had purchased land at village Dhamdhan Sahib two years ago under the guidance of one Ravi Saroop, but the payment dispute with local dealers escalated.
In an attempt to resolve the issue, Gurpyar’s family had sought help from a few individuals known for mediation in property-related matters, including Hardeep Singh Akali, Jassa Singh, and others. Later, those involved allegedly demanded money in return, which led to tensions between the two sides.
Police investigations revealed that the accused had kidnapped the journalist after their demand for money was refused. The arrested accused has been identified as Balkaran Jeet Singh (45), a resident of village Rekhe Kalan, Bathinda. He was apprehended from Kotkapura.
During interrogation, Balkaran Jeet Singh confessed that the kidnapping was carried out over the monetary dispute linked to the earlier property deal. The police have identified the remaining accused as Hardeep Singh and Jaskaran Singh, who are still absconding. Raids are underway to arrest them.
SSP Hans commended the coordinated efforts of the Mohali Police, supported by multiple district teams, which led to the safe recovery of the journalist. “We acted swiftly, mobilized our resources, and ensured the victim’s safety in record time,” he said.