UP-ATS arrests two over alleged terror plot linked to Pakistan’s ISI

Mangalore Today News Network

UP, Apr 24, 2026: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP-ATS) has arrested two individuals allegedly working for Pakistani gangsters and the ISI, who were involved in anti-India activities aimed at disturbing the country’s unity, integrity and security.

According to a statement, the accused were in contact with Pakistan-based gangster networks and were operating at the behest of handlers linked to the ISI. They were allegedly engaged in activities to spread terror and carry out disruptive operations in India through various social media platforms.

The arrested accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan, alias Hizbullah Khan (20), a resident of Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, currently living in Meerut, and Sameer Khan (20), a resident of Delhi. A pistol of .32 bore, five live cartridges and a mobile phone were recovered from their possession.

During interrogation, it was revealed that the accused were in contact with Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti and others, and were being instructed via encrypted communication channels. They were allegedly being radicalised and motivated through social media to carry out unlawful and terror-related activities.

The investigation further found that they were linked to extremist networks and were being guided to recruit more individuals.

The probe also revealed that Sameer Khan was connected to Shahzad Bhatti through social media and used encrypted platforms for communication. Bhatti allegedly instructed him to write “TTH (Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan)" on walls and encouraged him to involve others. Sameer Khan was also reportedly in contact with gangster Shahzad Bhatti, Adil Jatt and others via Instagram and was preparing to execute incidents as per their directions.

UP-ATS stated that the accused had also received instructions to carry out killings of specific individuals, including Pakistani handler Shahzad Bhatti’s directives to target certain persons.

A case has been registered at ATS Police Station, Lucknow, under sections 03/2026, 148, 152, 61(2) of BNS, Sections 3/4/25 of the Arms Act and Sections 13/18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Legal action is being taken after presenting the accused before the court.

The agency said further investigation is underway to identify other associates and gather more information, with permission sought for police custody remand of the accused.