Mumbai, India — The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) launched a large-scale statewide operation on Friday, conducting coordinated searches and questioning 102 individuals over their alleged links to Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti.
According to officials, the operation began at approximately 7:00 a.m., with 58 ATS teams from 14 regional units carrying out searches at multiple locations across the state. The investigation aims to determine whether any of the individuals had direct or indirect contact with Bhatti or his alleged network.
The coordinated raids were conducted in several cities, including Mumbai, Thane, Kurla, Bandra, Jogeshwari, Navi Mumbai, Mira Road, Bhayandar, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Satara, and Sangli.
According to the ATS, the investigation is based on intelligence inputs suggesting that Shahzad Bhatti allegedly used social media platforms to communicate with and influence Indian youth, encouraging them to participate in anti-national and unlawful activities. Authorities are examining digital evidence and other materials as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Investigators also allege that Bhatti’s associates—including individuals identified as Abid Jat (also known as Abid Chhal), Ajmal Gujar, Himmat Memon, Rana Hunain, and Ashraf Bashir Alam—have attempted to expand their network by using platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and WhatsApp to establish contact with people in India.
According to the ATS, the alleged network targeted economically vulnerable and unemployed youth, using financial incentives, misinformation, and sensitive religious or social issues in attempts to spread extremist propaganda and encourage unlawful activities. These allegations remain part of an ongoing investigation.
Officials further claim that the network sought to establish local sleeper cells or recruit individuals capable of gathering sensitive information and assisting in criminal operations, including alleged drug trafficking and the illegal transportation of weapons.
Alongside the investigation, the Maharashtra ATS issued a public advisory, urging citizens—especially young people—to remain cautious while using social media. The agency advised the public to avoid communicating with unknown or suspicious online profiles and warned against accepting offers that promise high financial returns for little effort or involve illegal activities.
The ATS also encouraged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s internet usage and social media activity, and to immediately report any sudden behavioral changes or suspicious online interactions to law enforcement authorities.
Officials further urged citizens not to share or believe unverified rumors or inflammatory online content that could undermine national unity, public order, or social harmony.
The Maharashtra Police and the Anti-Terrorism Squad stated that they remain committed to maintaining peace, security, and public safety, emphasizing that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found to be involved in anti-national or unlawful activities, subject to the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
