Hundreds detained across India over alleged ISI links

Indian security agencies have detained more than 250 people in coordinated raids across 14 states over alleged links to a Pakistan-based network backed by the country’s intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

According to NDTV, the operation targeted the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), which Indian officials allege has been involved in grenade attacks, improvised explosive device (IED) blasts, petrol bomb attacks and targeted killings.

The raids were conducted on August 12 following intelligence sharing between central agencies and state police. A total of 253 people were detained for questioning, officials said.

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah described the operation as a major success against cross-border terrorism. In a post on X, he said security forces had recovered IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, ammunition and surveillance equipment, including CCTV cameras.

According to officials, the network allegedly operated through local handlers and members who collected information on police and defence installations and religious sites. Investigators suspect some members were paid to gather intelligence, identify potential targets and install surveillance equipment near sensitive locations.

Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of detentions at 62, followed by Haryana with 52, Delhi with 51 and Punjab with 44. Others were detained in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Gujarat, Bihar, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Kerala.

More than 80 first information reports have been filed in connection with the alleged network, while over 200 people have been arrested so far, officials said. Cases have been filed under India’s anti-terrorism, criminal, arms, narcotics and explosives laws.

Investigators are now examining the network’s financial transactions, communications and local support network. Further raids and arrests may follow as the investigation progresses.

SKS