ATS Raids 23 Locations Across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad In Probe Into Suspected Network Linked To Pakistani Gangster Shahzad Bhatti
ATS Raids 23 Locations Across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad In Probe Into Suspected Network Linked To Pakistani Gangster Shahzad Bhatti
Pune, July 14, 2026: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Tuesday carried out simultaneous raids at 23 locations across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad as part of a major operation targeting a suspected network allegedly linked to Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti.
The coordinated operation was part of a statewide crackdown in which the ATS conducted searches at 65 locations across Maharashtra, investigating suspected anti-national activities and possible links with foreign-based criminal elements.
According to preliminary information, investigators suspect that Shahzad Bhatti and his associates were using social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and WhatsApp, to establish contact with youths in Maharashtra, particularly in the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad region.
Officials believe the network may have been attempting to influence or recruit local youths for unlawful and anti-national activities. The ATS is probing the nature and extent of these alleged connections.
During the raids, several suspects were taken into custody for questioning. The ATS also seized a large quantity of electronic devices and documents, including mobile phones, laptops, bank-related records, and other digital evidence, from the premises searched.
Senior ATS officials are currently interrogating the detained individuals to ascertain the network’s alleged links and activities. Given the suspected cross-border connection, the investigation is being treated as a matter of national security.
The ATS has not yet disclosed the identities of those questioned or confirmed whether any arrests have been made. Officials said the investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the probe progresses.
