Rajasthan ATS launches crackdown on suspected cross-border network; 7 held
Jaipur, May 14
Following a major crackdown by the Anti-Terrorism Squad against a suspected Pakistan-linked terror and smuggling network, seven youths from Sri Ganganagar district have been detained over alleged links to the social media network of Pakistan-based terror operative Shahzad Bhatti.
Sri Ganganagar SP Hari Shankar said that over the past 24 hours, the ATS, along with intelligence agencies, carried out raids across multiple locations in Rajasthan to identify individuals suspected of involvement in anti-national activities or maintaining cross-border contacts.
The seven detained youths are currently being jointly interrogated by multiple agencies.
Officials said no concrete evidence has yet emerged that can be publicly disclosed, but security agencies are maintaining strict surveillance and closely monitoring developments.
"Their gadgets are being monitored and we are tracing their locations. Once we are through with the investigation, we will be able to share details," the SP told IANS.
Following the ATS raids, intelligence and security agencies across the border districts have been placed on high alert.
According to intelligence inputs, Shahzad Bhatti has allegedly been using drones to send consignments of heroin, foreign-made weapons and RDX explosives from Pakistan into India.
Sources said Bhatti was attempting to lure local youths into his network, especially individuals seeking quick money through illegal activities.
In response, ATS and police teams launched a statewide investigation into suspicious social media accounts and possible online links with Pakistan-based operatives.
Investigations into earlier cases have also revealed alleged links between local youths and Bhatti's network.
On March 26, Akashdeep, a resident of Kera Chak village under the jurisdiction of Lalgarh police station in Sri Ganganagar district, was arrested after investigators found that he was allegedly in regular contact with Bhatti through Instagram and WhatsApp.
Police said he had also allegedly threatened villagers using the gangster's name.
Later, on April 6, Hanumangarh Police arrested Sunil alias "Dholu", a resident of Sureshia Colony in Hanumangarh Junction, after recovering an illegal country-made pistol from his possession.
During the investigation, police reportedly found Bhatti's WhatsApp number and several incriminating messages on his mobile phone.
Sunil already faces nearly 10 criminal cases.
Similarly, on March 25, Hanumangarh Police arrested Jaswant Kumar alias Sonu, a resident of Kishanpura Dikhnada village, for allegedly maintaining contact with Bhatti through social media and sharing photographs of weapons.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Yaar such a serious issue. Seven youth from one district alone? These cross-border networks are exploiting our youth's desperation for money. But we need proof before branding anyone terrorist. Due process must be followed. Hope investigation is thorough and fair.
Shahzad Bhatti using drones for heroin and RDX? This is serious breach of our border security. But I'm curious why only Rajasthan youth are targeted. Need ATS to explain the pattern. Also, why not go after the actual handlers across the border instead of catching small fish?
Just like the Kashmiri youth, our Rajasthani youth are also being radicalized and lured into cross-border networks. The pattern is same - social media, quick money, gangsters. Need better employment opportunities in border areas. When youth have nothing to lose, they become easy prey. 🤔
ATS and intelligence agencies acting proactively is good sign. But I'm concerned about "no concrete evidence yet" statement. Are we arresting based on suspicion only? Need balance between national security and civil liberties. Let's not repeat the mistake of wrongfully detaining innocents.
This Bhatti fellow is operating from Pakistan and our agencies still can't trace him? Meanwhile our poor youth are getting caught. India needs to take strong diplomatic action against Pakistan for harboring such operatives. Also, parents need to monitor what their kids are doing online. 💪
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