ISI-Backed Shahzad Bhatti terror network busted, More than 200 arrested in multi-state operation

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said security agencies have dismantled the Pakistan-based, ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), thwarting its plans for subversive activities across the country. He said more than 200 operatives were arrested in coordinated operations across 14 states ahead of Independence Day, with IEDs, grenades, pistols, live cartridges and CCTV cameras used for espionage recovered from the network.

 

“Modi govt destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network ahead of Independence Day and thwarted its plans for subversive attacks by arresting more than 200 operatives. Indian security forces ripped apart the network by launching coordinated operations across different locations in 14 states upholding a brilliant example of India’s zero-tolerance towards terrorism. Substantial recoveries, including IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges, and CCTV cameras used for espionage, were made from the ISI-funded group. The network was involved in several terrorist activities”, Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted.

 

According to government statement, Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), a Pakistan-based, ISI-backed terror syndicate linked to grenade, IED and petrol bomb attacks and targeted killings across India. SBN has also been paying local conduits to recce police, defence and religious sites, and to install CCTV cameras for espionage.

 

To counter SBN-linked disruptions planned around Independence Day, a coordinated multi-state operation was carried out on August 12 using a real-time intelligence-sharing system with State Police forces. It led to 253 detentions across 14 states - Uttar Pradesh (62), Haryana (52), Delhi (51), Punjab (44), Rajasthan (15), Maharashtra (8), Uttarakhand (5), Karnataka, Gujarat and Bihar (3 each), and Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, J&K and Kerala (2 each) - with fresh FIRs registered in Delhi and Karnataka.

 

Cumulatively, over 80 FIRs and 200 plus arrests have been recorded against SBN under UAPA, BNS, the Arms Act, NDPS Act and Explosive Substances Act. Recoveries include IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges and espionage CCTVs - confirming the network’s direct cross-border links.

 

Security agencies reaffirm Govt. of India’s zero tolerance for cross-border terror and continued coordinated action to dismantle SBN’s networks nationwide.