# Pre Independence Day Anti Terror Sweep Across 14 States Neutralizes ISI Backed Shahzad Bhatti Network

> Security agencies carried out synchronized raids across 14 states ahead of Independence Day, arresting over 200 operatives linked to the ISI-funded Shahzad Bhatti terror network and seizing arms and explosives.

**Type:** article · **Category:** India · **Published:** 2026-08-17 · **Source:** TrendKia
**Canonical:** https://trendkia.com/en/national/svatntrata-divasa-se-pahale-14-rajyon-men-bara-atnkavada-rodhi-abhiyana-pakistan-samarthita-shahzad-bhatti-netavarka-ke-200-se-adh-17604 · **Language:** English
**Tags:** Shahzad Bhatti Network, Anti Terror Operation, Amit Shah, ISI, Independence Day Security, National Security

In a major counter-terrorism operation ahead of Independence Day, Indian security agencies dismantled the Pakistan ISI-supported Shahzad Bhatti Network through simultaneous raids across 14 states. More than 200 suspects linked to the syndicate were arrested during the coordinated crackdown. The swift action successfully foiled potential terror plots aimed at causing violence and instability across the country prior to the August 15 celebrations.

## Seizure of Explosives, Weapons, and Espionage Gear
During the extensive searches, security forces recovered a substantial stockpile of arms and lethal explosives from multiple suspect locations. The seized inventory includes multiple IEDs, pistols, live ammunition cartridges, and hand grenades. Notably, several recovered grenades bore markings of the Pakistan Ordnance Factories, providing concrete documentary evidence of cross-border involvement. Investigators also seized specialized CCTV cameras that were actively being deployed by the network for reconnaissance and espionage operations targeting sensitive locations.

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## State-Wise Breakdown of Operations and Arrests
The nationwide crackdown involved synchronized raids conducted by multi-agency teams across 14 states. The state-by-state distribution of apprehended individuals and actions is detailed below

- **Uttar Pradesh:** 62 individuals apprehended
- **Haryana:** 52 individuals apprehended
- **Delhi:** 51 individuals apprehended
- **Punjab:** 44 individuals apprehended
- **Rajasthan:** 15 individuals apprehended
- **Maharashtra:** 8 individuals apprehended
- **Uttarakhand:** 5 individuals apprehended
- **Karnataka, Gujarat, and Bihar:** 3 individuals each
- **Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Kerala:** 2 individuals each

## Legal Framework and Multi-State Registration of Cases
Law enforcement agencies have registered over 80 FIRs nationwide against the Shahzad Bhatti Network to date, with new FIRs recently filed in Delhi and Karnataka during this wave of operations. Prosecutors have invoked stringent legal provisions against the accused, invoking the UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act), BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita), the Arms Act, the NDPS Act, and the Explosive Substances Act. This sweep follows earlier investigative steps taken in July, when the Maharashtra ATS interrogated 102 individuals who had established contact with Shahzad Bhatti.

## Historic Temples and Public Venues Targeted
Operational findings indicate that the Shahzad Bhatti module had planned attacks targeting high-profile public assets, including historic temples and popular roadside eateries (dhabas). Highlighting the significance of the operation, Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the simultaneous sweeps across 14 states reflect India's strict zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism. In light of the upcoming Independence Day observances, security agencies continue active surveillance on remaining suspects and local support structures linked to the SBN syndicate.

## What this means for you
- **Across India:** Dismantling a major terror syndicate ahead of Independence Day significantly reinforces national security and citizen safety.
- **At Public Places:** Neutralizing attack plans aimed at historic temples and popular commercial hubs enhances safety for visitors and pilgrims in crowded areas.

## Questions & Answers

### 1. How many people were arrested in the nationwide sweep against the Shahzad Bhatti network?
Security agencies arrested over 200 suspects and associates linked to the network across 14 states.

### 2. Which state saw the highest number of apprehensions?
Uttar Pradesh saw the highest number with 62 apprehensions, followed by Haryana with 52, Delhi with 51, and Punjab with 44.

### 3. What weapons and materials were recovered during the raids?
Security forces seized IEDs, pistols, live ammunition, surveillance CCTV cameras, and hand grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factories markings.

### 4. Which legal acts have been invoked against the accused?
Cases have been registered under strict provisions including the UAPA, BNS, Arms Act, NDPS Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.

### 5. What specific targets were planned for attack by this module?
Investigative findings revealed that the module was planning attacks on prominent historic temples and popular roadside eateries.

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