A massive pre-Independence Day terror plot was nipped in the bud by the security agencies.
Announcing the breakthrough, Union Home Minister Amit Shah explained how Indian agencies dismantled a Pakistan-backed ISI module run by the terrorist Shahzad Bhatti, arresting 253 people in 14 states and thwarting a pre-Independence Day terror plot.
Announcing the operation on X, Shah said multi-state raids were executed around August 12 as part of a coordinated crackdown.
“To thwart nefarious designs of terror outfits before Independence Day, our security agencies launched simultaneous operations against the Shahzad Bhatti Network. 253 operatives detained in 14 states. 80-plus FIRs registered. The nation is safe,” Shah posted.
Officials said the sweep focused on Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and Punjab, with smaller arrests reported in other states.
Modi govt destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network ahead of Independence Day and thwarted its plans for subversive attacks by arresting more than 200 operatives.
Indian security forces ripped apart the network by launching coordinated operations across…
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 17, 2026
IEDs, Grenades, And Spy Equipment Seized
During the raids, security agencies recovered a significant cache of arms and surveillance material. The recoveries included improvised explosive devices (IEDs), Pakistan Ordnance Factory-marked grenades, pistols, live cartridges, and CCTV equipment suspected to have been used for espionage and target reconnaissance.
Sources said the timing of the crackdown was critical, with intelligence inputs warning of attempts to carry out strikes in crowded areas ahead of August 15 celebrations.
