Security agencies have carried out a major multi-state crackdown against the Pakistan-based, ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), thwarting an alleged plan to disrupt Independence Day celebrations, according to official sources.
The coordinated operation was conducted across 14 states as part of the government’s stated zero-tolerance approach towards cross-border terrorism. The crackdown resulted in 253 people being detained, while more than 80 FIRs were registered and over 200 arrests were recorded against members and associates of the network.
Security agencies recovered a range of suspected operational and surveillance equipment during the investigations, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges and CCTV cameras allegedly used for espionage activities.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah welcomed the operation, describing it as a significant action against the ISI-backed network and stating that the coordinated operations had disrupted its plans for subversive activities ahead of Independence Day.
According to security agencies, the Shahzad Bhatti Network is allegedly linked to a range of violent activities, including grenade, IED and petrol bomb attacks as well as targeted killings. The network is also suspected of using local operatives to conduct reconnaissance of police, defence and religious sites.
Investigators have further alleged that members and local conduits associated with the network were involved in installing CCTV cameras at sensitive locations for surveillance and intelligence-gathering purposes.
The multi-state operation was launched on August 12 following intelligence inputs regarding possible attempts to create disruptions around Independence Day. The operation involved real-time intelligence sharing and coordinated action between central security agencies and state police forces.
The largest number of detentions were reported from Uttar Pradesh with 62, followed by Haryana with 52, Delhi with 51 and Punjab with 44. Rajasthan accounted for 15 detentions, while Maharashtra recorded eight and Uttarakhand five.
Karnataka, Gujarat and Bihar reported three detentions each, while Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Kerala recorded two each.
The crackdown highlights the increasing emphasis on intelligence-led and coordinated counter-terrorism operations, particularly against networks suspected of operating across state and international boundaries.
Security agencies are continuing investigations into the network’s alleged links, operational structure, funding channels and local support infrastructure as authorities work to identify any remaining associates and prevent further attempts at disruption.
