Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
8h ago

UP Seeks Terrorist Tag for Shahzad Bhatti Network

Approval would activate UAPA Fourth Schedule powers to expand prosecution as agencies continue joint probes.

UP Police has intensified its crackdown on alleged ISI-directed gangster Shahzad Bhatti network accused of recruiting and radicalising youth in India.
It requested the Centre to exercise its powers to include the Shahzad Bhatti network and its members in the Fourth Schedule of the Act by declaring them terrorists, the ADG said. (HT)
Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti | By special arrangement

Overview

  • The Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force say a statewide May 26 operation that examined about 175 suspects led to the registration of 12 cases and the arrest of 52 people.
  • Uttar Pradesh officials allege Shahzad Bhatti is a Pakistan‑based gangster working on directions from the ISI and link him to past attacks in Punjab and to drone smuggling.
  • Police say the network used social media to recruit young people with offers of money and jobs, radicalised them, and pushed recruits from small crimes to larger terror-related acts.
  • Investigators recovered pistols, live cartridges, knives, inflammable liquids and objectionable posters from arrested suspects, and Delhi Police’s Special Cell carried out a focused sweep that netted about 51 people in the capital.
  • The state has formally asked the Union home ministry to declare the Bhatti network terrorists under Section 35 of the UAPA, a step that would give central agencies stronger investigative and prosecutorial powers while the ministry considers notification.