India arrests members of Pakistan‑linked Shahzad Bhatti network

Indian security agencies say the Pakistan‑based Shahzad Bhatti network, allegedly directed by the ISI, has been recruiting youth in Uttar Pradesh for anti‑India activities. The Uttar Pradesh Anti‑Terrorist Squad arrested a 29‑year‑old dropout, Sharon Ahmad, and officials reported a total of 20 arrests so far, nine of them from the state. The network is said to use social media to radicalise people aged 25‑30, gather local infrastructure data and eventually assign larger tasks such as surveillance and targeted killings.

In Assam, the state Special Task Force carried out a coordinated raid in the districts of Dhubri, Chirang and Barpeta, detaining three suspected operatives – Akramul Islam, Aminur Rahman and Abdul Hussain. Police seized five mobile phones, several SIM cards, Aadhaar cards, bank passbooks and other documents. Authorities allege the network operates through encrypted channels under ISI direction and collaborates with groups such as the Khalistan Armed Force, Punjab Sovereignty Alliance and Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Hindustan as front organisations.