UK sanctions businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal and group Babbar Akali Lehar over terrorism links and funding.

The UK has imposed sanctions on British businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal and the group Babbar Akali Lehar, accusing them of funding and supporting pro-Khalistan terrorism linked to the banned Babbar Khalsa International. Under its new Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regime, the UK froze Rehal’s assets, barred him from director roles, and targeted his affiliated organizations. Authorities allege he facilitated weapons purchases, ran online propaganda, provided financial services to designated terrorists, and supported the 2021 Khalistan Referendum. Rehal is also accused of ties to BKI operatives and recruitment efforts. The move aims to disrupt overseas terror financing and strengthen cooperation with India. Rehal’s former ventures, Panjab Warriors and Morecambe FC, confirmed they severed ties, citing compliance and due diligence. The UK reiterated its commitment to preventing its financial system from being exploited by extremists.