The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 23-year-old man from Azamgarh for allegedly being part of a terror network linked to Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti.
Investigators claim the network was operating with support from Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), and was attempting to recruit Indian youths through social media platforms.
Officials say the accused was allegedly being prepared for terror-related activities and was involved in efforts to radicalise other young people.
Who Is the Accused?
The arrested individual has been identified as Mohammad Sheikh, a resident of Khuddadpur village in the Nizamabad area of Azamgarh district. According to the ATS, he came in contact with members of the alleged terror network through WhatsApp and other social media platforms operated from Pakistan and Dubai.
Investigators claim that over time, Sheikh became influenced by the ideology promoted by the group and started communicating with its handlers.
How the Recruitment Network Allegedly Worked
According to the ATS, the network targeted Indian youths online by using social media platforms and messaging applications. The alleged recruiters reportedly offered money, appealed to religious sentiments, and attempted to radicalise young individuals.
Officials believe the aim was to create sleeper cells inside India that could be activated for future terrorist activities.
The ATS stated that the network was allegedly encouraging recruits to carry out unlawful activities, including gathering intelligence on selected individuals and institutions, targeting political offices, and attacking security personnel.
Alleged Role of Pakistani Gangster Shahzad Bhatti
Investigators claim that the network was being operated by Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti along with his associates, identified as Ajmal Gurjar and Raza Pakistani.
According to the ATS, these individuals were allegedly in regular contact with Mohammad Sheikh and played a role in influencing and directing his activities.
Officials further allege that Sheikh was actively trying to convince other youths in his area to join the organisation and support its agenda.
Alleged Assassination Plot Under Investigation
One of the most serious allegations against the accused relates to an alleged plot targeting a female political leader from another state.
The ATS claims Sheikh was given what investigators described as a “trial mission.” According to the agency, he was allegedly instructed to threaten and eventually assassinate the political leader. Officials believe the task was intended to test his loyalty and commitment to the network.
Investigators further allege that he was promised involvement in larger operations if he successfully completed the assignment.
Weapon Recovered During Arrest
Following surveillance and intelligence gathering, the ATS registered a case and arrested the accused.
During the operation, officials recovered:
- One 9mm pistol
- Four live cartridges
- One mobile phone
The recovered items are now being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Charges Filed Against the Accused
The ATS has registered a case under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Arms Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
After his arrest, Mohammad Sheikh was produced before a court and was sent to judicial custody on May 31, 2026.
Investigation Continues
The ATS has indicated that it will seek police custody of the accused for further questioning. Investigators are now trying to determine whether other individuals in India may have been connected to the alleged network.
Officials are also examining digital evidence, communication records, and social media activities to understand the full scope of the operation.
The case highlights growing concerns among security agencies about the use of social media platforms for radicalisation and recruitment. Authorities continue to monitor online activities closely as they investigate possible links between domestic recruits and foreign-based handlers.