A suspected plan to sabotage railway operations in Uttar Pradesh has been thwarted by authorities, revealing connections to handlers in Pakistan and a broader funding network allegedly sourced from abroad. The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) apprehended four individuals, including a primary suspect from Meerut, who reportedly communicated directly with an ISI handler.

Initial investigations indicate that the group aimed to attack a railway signal box located near Lucknow railway station. Their strategy involved igniting the signal system, which could disrupt train services and potentially lead to significant accidents, heightening the risk of casualties and widespread alarm.

Surveillance and Reconnaissance Activities Identified

The primary suspect, identified as Saqib, alias Devil, from Meerut, is believed to have established direct contact with an ISI handler based in Pakistan. Investigators assert that funds were transferred to Saqib, who subsequently allocated finances to other group members. The handler allegedly provided location details via Google screen recordings, which the suspects responded to with images and videos of planned targets.

The group reportedly conducted surveillance across various urban areas, including Lucknow, Ghaziabad, and Meerut. They gathered and shared photographic and video evidence of essential locations and vehicle showrooms, implying extensive planning and preparation for their operation.

In addition to railway targets, the suspects intended to attack trucks transporting gas cylinders and set fire to vehicle showrooms to inflict economic harm and generate chaos. This dual approach reflects a broader strategy to disrupt public safety and infrastructure.

Radicalisation of Suspects Through Online Propaganda

Authorities have indicated that the suspects were influenced and radicalised via online materials. The handler from Pakistan allegedly referenced figures such as Osama bin Laden, Farhatullah Ghori, Kashmir Mujahideen, and Ghazwa-e-Hind to galvanise the group. This utilisation of well-known names appears to have inspired a sense of purpose among the accused.

Two of the apprehended individuals, Lokesh, alias Papla, and Vikas, alias Raunak, reportedly connected with Saqib after encountering his social media profiles featuring weaponry. Another suspect, identified as Arbaab, also maintained contact with the handler, as noted by investigators, further solidifying the network of influence and recruitment.

In terms of legal proceedings, all four individuals are scheduled to be placed on remand by the UP ATS for extensive questioning. The authorities have requested a one-week custody period, and a remand hearing is set to take place in a special court designated for the National Investigation Agency and Anti-Terrorism Squad.

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