The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has successfully dismantled a terror network allegedly coordinated by handlers in Pakistan. The unit was reportedly plotting arson and sabotage, aimed at inducing chaos and fear across various regions in India. The operation reflects the ongoing vigilance of law enforcement agencies in preventing domestic threats linked to international terror networks.

Key intelligence revealed that the group maintained communication with their Pakistani counterparts, utilizing popular social media platforms like Telegram, Signal, and Instagram. This intricate web of communication facilitated the planning and execution of their malicious activities. The primary suspect has been identified as Saqib, also known as Devil, hailing from Meerut, who allegedly played a pivotal role in these anti-national operations.

According to the ATS’s findings, the group was in the process of targeting critical infrastructure, including railway signal boxes and governmental properties, as well as planning arson attacks on trucks transporting gas cylinders. Surveillance conducted by these individuals involved monitoring significant political and institutional figures, with intelligence relayed back to their handlers in Pakistan.

Details of the Planned Act of Terrorism

The group was reportedly readying for a significant attack on April 2, 2026, the planned operation targeting the Lucknow railway station. They intended to execute arson and a potential explosion, specifically aimed at railway assets, tracks, and signal systems. Fortunately, law enforcement responded swiftly, apprehending four individuals before they could carry out their plot.

Law enforcement identified the arrested suspects as Saqib, Vikas Gehlawat, also known as Raunak, Lokesh alias Papla Pandit, and Arbaab. These arrests underscore the effectiveness of coordinated anti-terror operations within the state. Authorities initiated legal proceedings against the individuals arrested, filing charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

During the operation, the ATS seized a variety of materials, including a canister filled with a flammable substance, seven smartphones, 24 propaganda pamphlets, as well as Aadhaar identification cards. This evidence suggests a structured approach to their operations, aimed at spreading fear and inflicting economic damage upon the nation while targeting government assets directly.

Radicalisation and Financial Networks

The ATS has highlighted the strategy employed by the Pakistani handlers to radicalise youth within India. The group reportedly circulated extremist content associated with notorious figures and organisations, such as “Osama bin Laden” and “Kashmir Mujahideen.” Through these measures, they sought to recruit and groom young individuals for radical activities.

Funding for the operations appeared to stem from an organised financial network, with money reportedly transferred to the module through QR codes. This indicates a sophisticated setup that not only identified targets but also procured the necessary resources to execute their plans. The establishment of such connections between Indian operatives and international terror elements raises serious concerns regarding national security.

The ATS’s recent intervention has significantly thwarted a potential act of terrorism aimed at one of the busiest railway stations in Lucknow. Continuous efforts from law enforcement agencies are deemed crucial in maintaining public safety and countering the threats posed by radical groups operating within and outside the country.

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