'Were planning grenade attacks in Delhi': ATS arrests 2 for links with ISI-backed Pakistan gangsters

LUCKNOW: An alleged terror plot involving grenade attacks and targeted killings in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh was foiled, with UP Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) Thursday arresting two suspects, both aged 20, who were acting under instructions from Pakistan-based gangsters linked to ISI.

The accused were identified as Tushar Chauhan alias Hizbullah Ali Khan, a resident of Baghpat currently staying in Meerut, and Sameer Khan of Delhi. The arrests, according to ATS, exposed a chilling recruitment pattern in which Indian youths were radicalised and incentivised through social media to carry out violent acts.

During sustained interrogation, Tushar made key disclosures pointing to a well-structured conspiracy, officers said. He revealed that he had been assigned the task of carrying out grenade attacks at selected locations in Delhi and UP, and killing specific individuals identified by his handlers. ATS sources said the targets included non-religious places, including some political organisations.

In return, Tushar was promised ₹50,000 as advance payment and ₹2.5 lakh after successfully carrying out the attacks. He was also assured of logistical support for his escape, including assistance in obtaining a passport and facilitating his relocation to Pakistan via Dubai after completing the mission.

ATS sources said Tushar came in contact with Pakistan-based gangsters Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jat through Instagram, where he was gradually radicalised. Communication later shifted to encrypted channels, including voice and video calls. To gain their trust, he even created social media profiles in the name of Shahzad Bhatti. Through these channels, he received instructions, ideological content and operational guidance.

Tushar further disclosed that alleged ISI-linked operatives —identified as ‘Major Hameed’, ‘Major Iqbal’, and ‘Major Anwar’ — were expected to assign targets.

Sameer Khan was also in touch with the handlers via encrypted platforms and was tasked with propaganda activities, including writing ‘TTH’ (Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan) slogans, and recruiting youths.

Both accused had reportedly begun reconnaissance of potential targets and were preparing to execute the planned attacks.

The ATS recovered a .32 bore pistol with five live cartridges, a knife, and two mobile phones containing incriminating data from the accused. A case has been registered under relevant provisions of BNS, Arms Act, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The ATS is set to seek their police custody to further unravel the network, identify additional operatives, and trace financial and digital links.
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