TerrorPlot – ATS Arrests Two Suspects Over Planned Grenade Attacks
TerrorPlot – The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained two young men accused of plotting grenade attacks across several cities in Uttar Pradesh and the national capital, Delhi. Officials said the arrests were made on Thursday following intelligence inputs that pointed to a coordinated plan with suspected links to Pakistan’s intelligence network.
Arrests Reveal Planned Multi-City Attacks
According to investigators, the accused—identified as Tushar Chauhan, also known as Hizbullah Ali Khan, originally from Baghpat and currently residing in Meerut, and Sameer Khan from Delhi—were allegedly preparing to carry out targeted attacks using explosives. Both individuals are in their early twenties.
Officials stated that preliminary questioning suggests the suspects were acting under instructions from handlers based outside India. The plan reportedly involved attacking specific locations in Delhi and various cities in Uttar Pradesh, raising concerns about public safety and coordinated terror activity.
Social Media Used for Recruitment and Radicalisation
Authorities highlighted a growing trend in which individuals are being recruited and influenced through social media platforms. In this case, investigators believe the accused were initially approached online and gradually drawn into extremist networks.
An ATS officer noted that such methods are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Young individuals are being targeted through seemingly casual online interactions, which later evolve into deeper involvement through private and encrypted communication channels. This pattern, officials say, poses a serious challenge for law enforcement agencies monitoring digital spaces.
Role of Foreign-Based Handlers
During interrogation, Tushar Chauhan allegedly disclosed that he had been assigned a key operational role. He was reportedly instructed to carry out grenade attacks at selected locations, with the aim of targeting individuals identified by handlers operating from Pakistan.
In exchange for executing the attacks, he was allegedly promised financial compensation of ₹3 lakh, logistical assistance, and arrangements for relocation abroad. Officials claim that the plan included a possible route through Dubai before reaching Pakistan.
Investigators are now working to verify these claims and trace the network of individuals involved in coordinating the alleged plot.
Shift to Encrypted Communication Channels
Sources within the ATS revealed that the accused initially connected with suspected foreign operatives through Instagram. The individuals they were in contact with have been identified as Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jat, both believed to be based in Pakistan.
As communication progressed, conversations reportedly moved to more secure platforms, including encrypted messaging services and voice and video calls. This transition made it more difficult for agencies to track their activities in real time.
Officials say such tactics are commonly used to avoid surveillance and maintain secrecy while planning illegal activities.
Ongoing Investigation and Security Measures
The arrests have prompted a broader investigation into possible links and additional suspects. Authorities are examining digital evidence, financial transactions, and communication records to uncover the full extent of the network.
Security has been heightened in sensitive areas across Uttar Pradesh and Delhi as a precautionary measure. Law enforcement agencies are also increasing monitoring of online platforms to detect similar recruitment patterns in the future.
Officials have emphasized the importance of public awareness, urging citizens to report suspicious online interactions or activities that may indicate radicalisation or unlawful intentions.
The case underscores the evolving nature of security threats and the need for coordinated efforts to address both physical and digital aspects of such challenges.