India cuts off internet in state as search for preacher ramps up
A massive search for controversial self-styled preacher Amritpal Singh has been launched by police in India’s Punjab.
Singh has been on the run since Saturday.
In an effort to find the suspect, internet and messaging services in the state have been suspended and security has been tightened.
Singh, 30, has said he supports the Khalistan movement for a separate Sikh homeland. Several of his aides have been arrested so far.
The crackdown comes weeks after Singh’s supporters stormed a police station, demanding the release of an aide who had been arrested.
Singh was declared a fugitive on Saturday, and police launched a state-wide search for him.
Efforts for the search include traffic blockades being set up across the state to check vehicles.
‘Dramatic chase through villages live-streamed’
Singh is said to have travelled in a cavalcade, according to local media, and he was able to dodge police near the Shahkot-Mehatpur area in Jalandhar district after a dramatic chase.
The dramatic chase went through villages and was live-streamed by some of his associates, the Times of India newspaper reported, adding that they also uploaded videos on social media urging supporters to gather near Jalandhar.
A top official said Singh was able to escape after being chased for around 12 to 15 miles.
Police had seized three cars allegedly used by Singh and his associates, as well as illegal weapons and bullets.
Cops have also detained many of Singh’s supporters who have been protesting against the plan to arrest him.