A Major Crackdown on Cross-Border Terror Network
The Delhi Police Special Cell has uncovered a Pakistan-backed terror module, taking a significant step in disrupting a network that had begun targeting sensitive locations across North India. The operation led to the arrest of three young operatives from Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Moreover, police recovered a semi-automatic pistol, live cartridges, incriminating chats, and reconnaissance videos.
How the Terror Module Operated
According to officials, the module was controlled by gangster-turned-terrorist Shahzad Bhatti, who has been hiding in Pakistan. He allegedly coordinated every move from across the border. Furthermore, he used encrypted apps and fake social media profiles to influence vulnerable youngsters.
Investigators revealed that Bhatti would identify recruits through online platforms. After selecting them, he would offer money, promise status, and push them into criminal activities. As soon as they agreed, he began assigning reconnaissance tasks and arranging weapons through digital channels.
Arrests Across Three States
The arrested operatives have been identified as Vikas Prajapati (19) from Madhya Pradesh, Hargunpreet Singh (19) from Punjab, and Asif (22) from Uttar Pradesh. Each of them played a different role in the network.
Prajapati had already been wanted in an arms-smuggling case. Eventually, police traced him after monitoring Bhatti’s communication pattern. His frequent movement between Delhi and Gurdaspur raised suspicion. During questioning, he admitted that Bhatti had instructed him to go offline often to avoid surveillance.
Hargunpreet, another young recruit, confessed to carrying out the grenade attack outside Gurdaspur City police station on November 25. He acted on Bhatti’s orders and executed the attack while riding pillion on a motorcycle.
Meanwhile, Asif was preparing for another planned strike. He had received maps, photos, and clear instructions from Bhatti for a second grenade attack in Punjab.
Ongoing Search for More Operatives
Although three suspects are in custody, the investigation is far from over. Police believe additional members of the module are still active. Because of this, search operations have intensified across several states. Officials say the arrests mark only the beginning of a deeper crackdown on Bhatti’s network.
