Security agencies have carried out one of the widest coordinated counter-terror operations in recent years against the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), an alleged Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)-backed syndicate accused of involvement in grenade attacks, IED blasts, petrol bomb incidents and targeted killings across India, officials said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the crackdown as a major success against cross-border terrorism, saying security forces had dismantled the Shahzad Bhatti Network and arrested more than 200 operatives linked to it. In a post on X, Mr Shah said coordinated operations were carried out at multiple locations across 14 states, resulting in substantial recoveries including IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges and CCTV cameras allegedly used for espionage.
Officials said more than 80 FIRs and over 200 arrests linked to the Shahzad Bhatti Network have been made so far under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Arms Act, NDPS Act and the Explosive Substances Act.
The network was operated through local handlers and operatives tasked with conducting reconnaissance of police establishments, defence installations and religious sites, according to officials. Officials said further action is likely as investigations continue to identify remaining operatives and facilitators linked to the network. The government has said the operation reflects its policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism and highlights growing coordination between central and state agencies in tackling cross-border security threats.
