NEW DELHI: In a major counter-terrorism breakthrough ahead of Independence Day, Indian security agencies have dismantled the Pakistan-based and ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), thwarting alleged plans to carry out subversive activities across the country. The operation, conducted under a coordinated nationwide security drive, resulted in the detention of 253 suspects across 14 states and the arrest of more than 200 operatives linked to the terror syndicate.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the crackdown was carried out on August 12 as part of the Government of India’s stated policy of “zero tolerance” towards cross-border terrorism. The operation involved extensive intelligence-sharing between central agencies and state police forces, leading to simultaneous raids at multiple locations.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a post on social media platform X, said the operation had effectively destroyed the SBN network before it could execute planned attacks around Independence Day. He stated that Indian security forces conducted coordinated actions across 14 states, dismantling the organization’s infrastructure and arresting key operatives.
Investigators describe the Shahzad Bhatti Network as a Pakistan-based terror syndicate allegedly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The organization has been linked to grenade attacks, IED explosions, petrol bomb incidents, targeted killings, and espionage-related activities within India. Security agencies allege that the network employed local operatives to conduct reconnaissance of police establishments, defence installations, and religious sites, while also installing CCTV cameras for surveillance purposes.
The multi-state operation led to detentions in 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, Jammu & Kashmir, and Kerala (2 each). Fresh cases were also registered in Delhi and Karnataka.
Officials reported significant recoveries during the raids, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges, and CCTV equipment allegedly used for espionage activities. These recoveries, agencies said, indicate the network’s direct links to cross-border terror operations.
Authorities further revealed that more than 80 FIRs have been lodged against members and associates of the network under various laws, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Arms Act, NDPS Act, and Explosive Substances Act.
Security agencies have reaffirmed their commitment to continuing coordinated operations against terrorist networks and their support structures across the country. Officials said the latest action underscores India’s resolve to prevent cross-border terror activities and strengthen national security, particularly during sensitive national events such as Independence Day celebrations.