ISI-linked network busted ahead of Independence Day, 253 held across 14 states
In a major coordinated operation, security agencies have dismantled an alleged terror network linked to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), arresting 253 people across 14 states. The action, conducted ahead of Independence Day, was aimed at pre-empting planned subversive activities around August 15, officials said on Monday.
The operation involved simultaneous raids at multiple locations, with state and central agencies working in tandem. According to officials, it was the culmination of months of surveillance and intelligence sharing among various police forces.
More than 80 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in connection with the network, identified as the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN). The cases have been filed under various laws, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Arms Act, the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and the Explosive Substances Act.
According to officials, substantial recoveries were made from the arrested operatives. These included improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades bearing markings of the Pakistan Ordnance Factory, pistols, live cartridges and CCTV cameras suspected to be used for espionage. Officials said the grenades with Pakistani markings point to cross-border support for the network.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on social media that security forces "ripped apart" the network through coordinated operations across different locations in 14 states. He described the action as a "brilliant example" of India's zero tolerance towards terrorism.
The Shahzad Bhatti Network is allegedly led by Pakistan-based gangster-terrorist Shahzad Bhatti, who has a notable social media presence. Officials said the network targeted vulnerable young people from low-income groups, including those with grievances or substance abuse issues. The recruits were allegedly radicalised and assigned tasks such as espionage, reconnaissance of potential targets, collection and transportation of arms reportedly sent from Pakistan via drones, and carrying out attacks using firearms and grenades.
Officials said the network used online platforms to establish contact with potential recruits. The recruits were often enticed with money and other incentives, and were gradually drawn into the network's activities. The network also allegedly had a logistics chain for moving weapons, including through drones, across the border.
The coordinated operation was executed on August 12, utilising real-time intelligence sharing with state police forces. State-wise, the arrests included 62 in Uttar Pradesh, 52 in Haryana, 51 in Delhi, 44 in Punjab, 15 in Rajasthan, eight in Maharashtra, five in Uttarakhand, three each in Karnataka, Gujarat and Bihar, and two each in Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Kerala. Fresh FIRs were also registered in Delhi and Karnataka.
Officials said the network had been active in several parts of the country and had been planning attacks during the Independence Day period. The arrests are seen as a significant disruption to the network's operations and recruitment efforts.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have assured that all legal procedures will be followed. Those arrested are being produced before courts as per due process. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
