Counter-Terrorism Operation Leads to Arrest of ISIS Suspect in Uttar Pradesh

In a significant counter-terrorism operation, the Delhi Police Special Cell and Uttar Pradesh ATS arrested an ISIS suspect, Rizwan Ahmed, in Kushinagar. Ahmed, linked to ISIS since 2015, was involved in recruitment activities and had bomb-making materials in his possession. The operation also uncovered a gang plotting terror under the guidance of Pakistani handlers, targeting critical institutions and political figures. The ATS's proactive measures led to the arrest of multiple suspects before they could execute their plans, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 5, 2026, 10:03 IST

Joint Operation by Delhi Police and UP ATS

In a collaborative effort, the Counter Intelligence Unit of the Delhi Police Special Cell and the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have apprehended a suspected ISIS terrorist. The arrest took place in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, and the individual has been identified as Rizwan Ahmed. According to investigative agencies, Ahmed has been associated with ISIS since 2015 and was involved in recruitment activities for the terrorist organization within India.

Seizure of Explosive Materials

During the operation, authorities recovered bomb-making materials, several incriminating documents, and jihadist literature from the suspect. The seized items are currently under examination. Investigators revealed that Rizwan Ahmed had previously been incarcerated in Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail for involvement in terrorist activities, and interrogation is ongoing.

Uncovering a Conspiracy Linked to Pakistani Handlers

Additionally, the UP ATS has exposed a gang that was plotting to instigate terror and chaos in India under the direction of Pakistani handlers. This group's primary aim was to target critical institutions, railway assets, and political figures to inflict damage. The ATS has arrested several individuals, including the gang leader Shakib from Meerut, along with Vikas Gehlawat, Lokesh, and Arbab.

Communication via Social Media

Investigations revealed that the gang maintained contact with Pakistani handlers through social media platforms such as Telegram, Signal, and Instagram. Shakib, a professional barber, was linked not only to Pakistan but also to certain suspicious numbers and extremist groups in Afghanistan. Members of the gang conducted reconnaissance on significant locations in various cities, including Ghaziabad, Aligarh, and Lucknow, gathering information on prestigious institutions, vehicles, and railway signal boxes to relay to their handlers.

Planning and Execution of Attacks

Following their reconnaissance, the gang devised plans to target these locations. Investigations also revealed that the accused had executed minor arson incidents at certain sites, recording videos to send to Pakistan in exchange for payments via QR codes. Their plans included destroying railway signal boxes, igniting trucks filled with gas cylinders, and causing harm to political figures, aiming to instill fear and cause economic damage in the country.

Preemptive Action by ATS

Upon receiving intelligence, the ATS team conducted an operation near the Lucknow railway station, successfully apprehending the suspects before they could execute their plans. During the search, authorities seized a canister filled with flammable substances, seven smartphones, and 24 pamphlets. The ATS is currently conducting an in-depth investigation into this entire network to uncover additional individuals involved and any foreign connections.