Delhi Police Bust Pakistan-Linked Terror Network in NCR, Seven Arrested

New Delhi: Delhi Police have dismantled a Pakistan-linked terror network operating across the Delhi-NCR region, arresting seven members of the cell who were functioning on directions from across the border. The arrested individuals are identified as Anas Tyagi (26), Mohit (26), Deepak Agarola (38), Arif (30), Karanvir Singh (26), Jatan (29), and Sabir (30), several of whom have prior criminal records in cases involving murder, robbery, and arms trafficking.

The network was operating on behalf of Shahzad Bhatti, a gangster-handler affiliated with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and his associate Ajmal Gujjar. Members were recruited through social media.

The cell's primary activities included conducting surveillance of key public places and strategic locations across Delhi-NCR and transmitting photographs and videos to their Pakistan-based handlers. The network had also conspired to carry out an attack in Delhi in May. It was further responsible for receiving weapons and narcotics — including heroin — smuggled across the Punjab border via drones, and distributing them locally.

Police seized five sophisticated semi-automatic pistols, 41 live cartridges, an SUV, and seven mobile phones containing incriminating chats and voice notes. The network used encrypted applications, fake social media accounts, disposable phone numbers, and hawala channels to evade detection. Multiple bank accounts used to route proceeds from drug sales were also identified.

The breakthrough came when Mohit was apprehended near the Bhagirath water treatment plant in Yamuna Vihar. Interrogation of Mohit led investigators to the other accused and unravelled the larger terror network. Police have intensified the search for remaining suspects who are believed to be in hiding.