Security – Delhi Police Bust Pakistan-Linked Terror Network With Arrest
Security – The Delhi Police has announced the dismantling of a suspected terror network with alleged links to Pakistan, following the arrest of a young operative believed to be part of the group’s activities.
Arrest of Young Suspect in Uttar Pradesh
Authorities identified the accused as 18-year-old Harmandeep Singh, also known as Harman, a resident of Rampur in Uttar Pradesh. According to officials, he was apprehended after investigators traced his involvement in activities linked to a broader network allegedly managed by gangster-turned-terror operative Shahzad Bhatti.
During the arrest, police recovered a black spray paint can reportedly used for graffiti in three locations in Talwara, located in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district. In addition, a mobile phone seized from the suspect contained chat records, images, and videos that investigators claim establish contact with handlers based across the border.
Digital Communication and Network Links
Investigators stated that Singh had been in regular communication with Bhatti and his associates through social media platforms. The exchanges allegedly included instructions, visual proof of completed tasks, and discussions related to operational planning.
During questioning, Singh reportedly revealed that some individuals linked to the network may have been involved in a firing incident near Kashmiri Gate. Officials added that a Pakistan-based associate of Bhatti had earlier claimed responsibility for planning that incident through online posts.
Graffiti Campaign and Recruitment Efforts
Police officials said Singh was instructed to carry out graffiti in public spaces and share photographic evidence of the work. These activities were allegedly intended to spread messaging, create visibility, and attract potential recruits.
Authorities also believe Singh encouraged others in his hometown of Rampur to participate in similar acts, indicating an attempt to expand the network’s reach at the local level.
Modus Operandi of the Network
According to investigators, the group operated through a structured system directed by handlers outside India. These handlers allegedly used social media to identify and recruit young individuals by studying their online behavior and interests.
Once recruited, individuals were initially assigned tasks that carried relatively low risk. These included arranging logistics, transferring funds, conducting reconnaissance, and participating in propaganda activities such as graffiti. Officials said such steps were designed to gradually involve recruits in more serious operations.
The investigation further revealed that the network relied on financial incentives, remote coordination, and temporary operatives to carry out planned activities, including potential attacks in public areas.
Influence of Online Content
Officials noted that Singh’s involvement appears to have been influenced by exposure to social media content portraying the lifestyle of criminal groups. This reportedly led him to follow Bhatti online and eventually establish contact with individuals connected to the network.
Through these connections, Singh came into contact with another accused individual named Dheeraj, who was previously arrested in connection with a grenade attack on a women police station in Sirsa, Haryana.
Financial Links and Expansion of Contacts
Police said Singh allegedly provided financial assistance to Dheeraj in exchange for being introduced to Bhatti. Over time, he is believed to have established communication with multiple associates, including individuals based outside India.
Bhatti reportedly connected Singh with an India-based contact identified as Anas, who acted as a conduit for coordination within the country.
Promises and Operational Planning
Investigators stated that Singh was informed about alleged plans involving the smuggling of arms and ammunition into India using drones. He was also reportedly promised financial rewards and assistance in relocating abroad after completing assigned tasks.
In one instance, officials said Singh participated in a live social media session along with other associates, during which plans related to graffiti and possible attacks in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh were discussed.
Ongoing Investigation
Police officials confirmed that further investigation is underway to identify additional members of the network and assess the extent of its operations. Authorities are also examining digital evidence to trace communication patterns and financial transactions linked to the case.
The arrest is being viewed as part of ongoing efforts to counter cross-border terror activities and prevent the recruitment of vulnerable individuals through online platforms.