UP ATS Arrests Two Suspects Linked to ISI and Pakistani Gangsters
Significant Action by UP ATS
Lucknow News: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has successfully apprehended two individuals allegedly working for the Pakistani intelligence agency ISI and associated with Pakistani gangsters. The arrested suspects have been identified as Tushar Chauhan, also known as Hizbullah Ali Khan (20), from Bagpat, and Sameer Khan (20), from Seemapuri, Delhi.
Targeting Sensitive Locations
According to UP ATS, both suspects were involved in a conspiracy to target economically sensitive areas in the country, including malls and industrial zones. Their objective was to undermine national security and carry out terrorist activities. Investigations revealed that the suspects were connected to Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti through social media platforms, where Bhatti had contacted them via a fake Instagram account.
Incentives of Money and Weapons
The UP ATS reported that the suspects were promised an immediate payment of ₹50,000 and an additional ₹2.5 lakh after the execution of their tasks. They were also offered access to weapons.
Links to Other Terrorist Groups
Further investigations indicated that Sameer Khan had connections with TTH (Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan). The two suspects maintained communication through VOIP calls and Telegram to avoid detection. UP ATS recovered a pistol, five live cartridges of .32 bore, a knife, and two mobile phones from their possession.
Legal Actions Taken
Charges have been filed against both suspects under various sections of the BNS, including 148, 152, 61(2), sections 3/4/25 of the Arms Act of 1959, and sections 13/18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967. The UP ATS is currently interrogating the suspects to uncover their associates and network. The agency is particularly vigilant regarding cases where youth are being radicalized through social media.
Previous Arrests Related to Terrorism
It is noteworthy that about a month ago, the UP ATS had uncovered a significant terrorist plot linked to an ISI-related module, arresting four suspects in Lucknow. These individuals were allegedly planning explosions at sensitive locations, including railway stations. The arrested suspects were identified as Saqib, also known as David, from Meerut, and Arbab, along with Vikas Gehlawat and Lokesh from Gautam Buddha Nagar.
Investigations revealed that this group was plotting to create panic by targeting railway signal boxes, crowded areas, vehicles filled with gas cylinders, and major institutions. Initial reports suggested that their first target was the Lucknow railway station. Saqib, a professional barber, was reportedly the mastermind of this network, connecting with his Pakistani contacts through social media platforms like Telegram and Instagram.