UP ATS Probes 150 Suspects Over Alleged Links to Pakistani Terror Network After 52 Arrests

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad has widened its investigation into an alleged Pakistani terror network and is now examining the backgrounds of more than 150 suspects following the arrest and questioning of 52 people over the past four months.

Investigators are scrutinising social media accounts, digital conversations, banking transactions and communication networks to determine whether the identified individuals had any direct or indirect links to the alleged network.

According to officials, more than 60 of the identified suspects have already been questioned, while investigators continue to analyse digital evidence, including chats, social media interactions and contact records.

The ATS has also identified more than two dozen people who were allegedly in contact with some of the arrested accused through social media platforms.

The investigation expanded after the questioning of the 52 arrested suspects allegedly provided information about the contacts and activities of more than 150 individuals. Authorities are now attempting to determine whether these people were simply connected to the accused or had deeper involvement in the alleged Pakistani network.

According to the ATS investigation, several of those arrested are suspected of operating as sleeper cells for Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti and his alleged network.

The arrested individuals face allegations involving activities such as spreading terror through arson, allegedly planning explosions in crowded places and displaying posters associated with Pakistani gangsters.

As part of the expanded investigation, the ATS is closely examining digital communications and financial transactions to identify possible operational, financial or communication links between the suspects and the alleged network.

Officials are also monitoring the remaining suspects while analysing their social media activity, banking records and digital contacts. The agency is reportedly seeking assistance from central investigating agencies as the scope of the probe continues to expand.

The key objective of the investigation is to establish whether any of the more than 150 people identified during the questioning had genuine links to the alleged Pakistani terror network and, if so, determine the extent of their involvement.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the identities and possible roles of the individuals being examined are yet to be conclusively established.