Security Agencies Bust ISI-Backed Shahzad Bhatti Network in 14-State Crackdown

Indian security agencies have dismantled a major network allegedly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence after coordinated operations across 14 states uncovered suspected plans for subversive activities around Independence Day.

The Union Home Ministry said on August 17 that the operation targeted the Shahzad Bhatti Network, or SBN, a Pakistan-based syndicate accused of involvement in grenade attacks, improvised explosive device attacks, petrol bombings, targeted killings and espionage activities in India.

According to the government, security agencies have registered more than 80 FIRs and arrested over 200 people in cases linked to the network. A large coordinated operation conducted on August 12 also resulted in the detention of 253 people across 14 states.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the crackdown had disrupted the network before Independence Day and described the operation as part of the government’s policy of zero tolerance towards cross-border terrorism.

Coordinated Operations Across 14 States

The August 12 operation was conducted through real-time intelligence sharing between central security agencies and state police forces.

Uttar Pradesh accounted for the largest number of detentions, with 62 people taken into custody. Haryana reported 52 detentions, followed by Delhi with 51 and Punjab with 44.

Security agencies also detained 15 people in Rajasthan, eight in Maharashtra and five in Uttarakhand. Karnataka, Gujarat and Bihar reported three detentions each, while Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala recorded two each.

Fresh FIRs were also registered in Delhi and Karnataka as investigators expanded their examination of the network’s activities.

IEDs, Grenades and Firearms Recovered

Authorities said searches linked to the network resulted in substantial recoveries, including IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols and live ammunition.

Investigators also recovered CCTV cameras that were allegedly being used for surveillance and espionage.

The government said these recoveries strengthened evidence pointing towards the network’s cross-border links and alleged external support.

Security agencies believe the network used local operatives and intermediaries to carry out reconnaissance of sensitive locations, including police installations, defence establishments and religious sites.

Some local contacts were allegedly paid to install CCTV cameras at selected locations, enabling the network to gather information remotely.

Network Linked to Attacks and Targeted Killings

According to the Home Ministry, the Shahzad Bhatti Network had been linked to several forms of violence, including grenade and IED attacks, petrol bombings and targeted killings.

Investigators are examining how the network recruited local operatives, transferred funds and coordinated activities across multiple states.

Cases connected with the organisation have been registered under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Arms Act, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and Explosive Substances Act.

The scale of the operation indicates that investigators were tracking not only individuals suspected of planning attacks but also logistics, financing, surveillance and local support structures associated with the organisation.

Independence Day Security Operation

The timing of the August 12 crackdown was significant because agencies were working to prevent possible disruptions around Independence Day.

Security establishments traditionally maintain heightened vigilance ahead of major national events, particularly against networks suspected of receiving support from organisations operating across the border.

The government said the coordinated action prevented the Shahzad Bhatti Network from carrying out its alleged plans and disrupted its operational infrastructure across several parts of the country.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Indian security forces had acted simultaneously at multiple locations and described the operation as an example of coordinated counter-terrorism action.

Security agencies have said investigations will continue as they seek to identify remaining operatives, financial channels and logistical networks associated with SBN.

The Centre reiterated that coordinated action between national agencies and state police forces would continue against organisations involved in cross-border terrorism and related activities.

---

Official Source: Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs — August 17, 2026

---