40 Shahzad Bhatti Modules Busted, 350 Held
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said security agencies have dismantled more than 40 modules linked to the Shahzad Bhatti Network, with 350 people arrested across 15 states in coordinated operations against an alleged cross-border terror and smuggling syndicate.
Over 40 Shahzad Bhatti Network Modules Busted
Shah said the network was allegedly involved in smuggling weapons, explosives and narcotics across international borders while using local operatives and criminal networks inside India.
More than 100 FIRs have been registered against individuals linked to the syndicate, according to the government. The crackdown has involved multiple central and state agencies working together across 15 states.
The Home Ministry had earlier declared the Shahzad Bhatti Network a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, citing alleged involvement in arms trafficking, explosives, narcotics smuggling and attempts to recruit young people and criminals into terror-related activities.
350 Arrested Across 15 States
Shah said improved coordination among security and intelligence agencies had played a major role in disrupting the network.
Earlier nationwide operations against the group had resulted in more than 200 arrests and hundreds of detentions. Authorities also reported seizures including improvised explosive devices, grenades, pistols, ammunition and surveillance equipment.
Investigations into individual cases and alleged cross-border links remain ongoing.
Amit Shah Launches New Extradition Portal
Shah made the remarks while addressing a national counter-terrorism conference, where he also launched a new Extradition Portal aimed at improving coordination in bringing fugitives back to India.
He said 288 fugitive criminals had been returned to India from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026.
State police forces were also urged to create dedicated teams to work with central agencies on extradition cases and counter-terror investigations.
