Chandigarh/Patiala, Sept 24: In a key development concerning the ongoing anti-drug investigations in the state, dismissed AIG Rajjit Singh surrendered before the Patiala police, ending an evasion of arrest that lasted nearly six years. DGP Gaurav Yadav affirmed that the former police officer was taken into formal custody.
The event carries significance ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. While the state administration has maintained its commitment to taking action against illegal narcotics, political opponents had repeatedly raised concerns over delays in apprehending high-profile individuals implicated in related investigations.
Singh’s dismissal from the police force followed findings by a High Court-mandated Special Task Force inquiry, which reviewed his operational ties with dismissed Inspector Inderjit Singh. The High Court observations noted that the findings warranted further scrutiny into the broader conduct of senior officers during that period.
Following these findings, two cases were formally registered against Singh in 2019. One case, registered by the Vigilance Bureau, related to disproportionate assets, while a separate case by the Special Task Force involved allegations of extortion and the protection of individuals tied to illegal trade.
After his bail application was turned down by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Singh went underground, leading authorities to deploy lookout notices to track his movements. Financial dealings and official records linked to him formed part of the extensive court-monitored probes. Police officials maintained that detailed statements regarding the next steps in the judicial process will be released as further information becomes available.
