Maharashtra ATS Raids 8 Cities In Major Anti-Terror Operation; 112 Questioned Over Alleged Links To Pakistan-Based Gangster
Maharashtra ATS Raids 8 Cities In Major Anti-Terror Operation; 112 Questioned Over Alleged Links To Pakistan-Based Gangster
Mumbai, July 10: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Friday launched a large-scale statewide operation, conducting simultaneous raids across eight cities as part of an investigation into suspected links with Pakistan-based gangster and social media influencer Shehzad Bhatti.
According to ATS sources, 14 ATS units began coordinated search operations from 7 am, targeting individuals allegedly connected to Bhatti through social media platforms. The raids were carried out in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Mira Road, Sangli, Satara, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and other locations.
As part of the operation, 112 individuals have been brought under scrutiny and are being questioned by ATS officials. Investigators are examining their mobile phones, laptops, social media accounts, and other digital devices to determine the nature of their interactions with the Pakistan-based suspect.
Officials said no arrests have been made so far, and further legal action will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation.
Probe into Alleged Radicalisation Network
According to investigators, Bhatti is suspected of using social media to establish contact with young people in India, particularly in Maharashtra, and allegedly attempting to influence or recruit them for anti-national activities.
The ATS is verifying the background, intentions, and extent of involvement of those who were allegedly in contact with him as part of its ongoing investigation into the suspected network.
Who is Shehzad Bhatti?
Shehzad Bhatti, a Pakistan-based gangster, initially gained popularity as a social media influencer with a significant presence on YouTube and TikTok, where he posted videos under the name “333.” His content reportedly focused on religion, India-Pakistan relations, and other controversial topics.
Investigative agencies suspect Bhatti has links with Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), bringing him under the radar of Indian security agencies.
Officials believe he may have used social media platforms to establish contacts with Indian youths and allegedly influence or recruit them for activities including terror-related operations, espionage, and targeted killings. Authorities are now investigating the suspected network not only in Maharashtra but also in other parts of the country.
