In a coordinated effort across multiple cities, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) interrogated 102 people suspected of having connections with Shahzad Bhatti, a gangster-terrorist based in Pakistan. Bhatti allegedly aims to recruit them for anti-national activities, using tactics like exploiting religious and social issues to manipulate and incite the youth against the country.
The ATS operation involved 58 teams from 14 units targeting individuals believed to be influenced by Bhatti and his associates. These associates, including Abid Jat, Aman Gujar, Thai Memon, Rana Hunen, and Ashraf Babhir Alam, are accused of enticing unemployed and economically disadvantaged youth with money to join their anti-national network and sleeper cells.
Authorities disclosed that Bhatti’s group focuses on recruiting agents locally to gather intelligence, traffic drugs, and deal in illegal weapons. This crackdown by the Maharashtra ATS mirrors a recent action by Delhi Police’s anti-terror Special Cell, which apprehended six suspects connected to Bhatti and seized materials for making petrol bombs.
The National Investigation Agency also conducted searches in Punjab and Haryana, targeting a terror-gangster network allegedly run by Bhatti. The Maharashtra ATS cautioned young people against falling for lucrative offers on social media, emphasizing the need to avoid being lured into potential conspiracies that threaten national security.
The police urged the public to refrain from spreading rumors on social media that could disrupt law and order or the nation’s integrity. Additionally, they advised parents to monitor their children’s online activities closely and report any concerning changes in behavior. The Maharashtra Police and ATS emphasized their commitment to safeguarding the state’s peace and security by holding accountable any elements compromising it.
