Maharashtra ATS Questions 66 Youths Over Alleged Links to Pakistan-Based Gangster

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Tuesday said it was questioning 66 youths in Pune on suspicion of having links with Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti and his associates. The agency believes these individuals may be using social media to expand the gang’s network in India.

An ATS officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “Discontent is being spread among Indian youth. They are being brainwashed. Those from economically weaker backgrounds are being lured with money to participate in anti-national activities.” The officer added that the gang was allegedly working to create sleeper cells and local-level agents.

The questioning operation began at 7 a.m. and was carried out with assistance from the Pune city police, Pune rural police, and Pimpri Chinchwad police. The agency did not disclose the number of individuals detained or arrested, noting that the proceedings are part of a preliminary inquiry.

According to the ATS, the gangsters are suspected of using social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and WhatsApp to contact Indian youths. They allegedly tried to exploit religious and socially sensitive issues to spread propaganda and influence them.

The ATS has issued an advisory to parents, urging them to monitor their children’s social media use to prevent engagement with unknown individuals. The agency also requested parents to report any suspicious behaviour and appealed to the public to avoid contacting unknown or suspicious people on social media platforms.

Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.