Delhi on high alert ahead of Hanuman Jayanti after arrest of Lashkar-e-Taiba operative

Security across the national capital has been intensified ahead of Hanuman Jayanti , following the arrest of suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative Shabir Ahmed Lone , who was allegedly planning terror strikes in Delhi.

Lone, described by police as a hardcore and highly-trained terrorist , was apprehended on March 29, 2026 , by the Special Cell of Delhi Police, New Delhi Range , during a probe linked to a recently uncovered LeT module. He had previously been arrested in 2007 for terror-related activities.

During interrogation, Lone reportedly confessed to conducting reconnaissance of major temples and crowded public spaces in the city, including Chhatarpur Temple, Kalkaji Temple, Lotus Temple, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar market . Police said he had recorded photos and videos of these locations to share with handlers in Pakistan , and had used social media with multiple identities to coordinate with operatives and attempt recruitment across Bangladesh, Nepal, and India . Authorities also recovered foreign currencies and other incriminating material during his arrest.

In response, Delhi Police have heightened surveillance and patrolling , deploying CCTV cameras, drones, and foot and motorcycle patrols in sensitive areas, markets, temples, and along procession routes. Particular attention is being paid to Jahangirpuri , an area that experienced violence during the 2022 Hanuman Jayanti celebrations. Authorities have capped procession participants at 500 , banned weapons , and held an Aman Committee meeting to ensure communal harmony.

A senior police officer said, “Security has been stepped up across Delhi ahead of religious gatherings, with sensitive routes and major temples under strict monitoring.”