In a significant move to combat the growing nexus between organized crime and terrorism, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) convened the first-ever inter-state discussion on the issue. The meeting, held at the Delhi Police Headquarters on Wednesday, brought together senior police officials from Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
The NIA led the discussion, focusing on key areas of concern, including the mapping of extortion calls made by gangsters and their links to terror syndicates, particularly pro-Khalistan elements and Pakistan-based groups. The use of cyberspace and organized crime networks for drug smuggling was also a major point of discussion.
This initiative aligns with Union Home Minister Amit Shah's call last year for a model anti-terrorism structure under the NIA, emphasizing the need for uniform procedures and improved center-state coordination. While these states and Union Territories routinely hold meetings, this was the first time they delved beyond routine information sharing and presented detailed insights into the organized crime-terror nexus.
Punjab police presented evidence of gangsters directly connected to pro-Khalistan extremists, Pakistan-based terrorists, and drug traffickers. Delhi Police shared area-wise mapping of extortion calls and the use of cyberspace by criminals to evade arrest. Rajasthan police focused on gangsters operating from abroad and Interpol's communication regarding these fugitives. Haryana police provided an overview of significant arrests and killings in the past six months and emerging gangster entities.
The NIA is actively coordinating with all states and Union Territories, sharing presentations on the threat posed by organized crime-terror syndicates, best practices in combating organized crime, and collaborative action plans. This meeting marks a crucial step in strengthening inter-state cooperation and intelligence sharing to effectively tackle this complex issue.
