Eight arrested in Delhi terror conspiracy with foreign links

Security agencies have foiled a major terror conspiracy targeting the national capital with the arrest of eight suspects, including some Bangladeshi nationals, who were allegedly plotting subversive activities at the behest of Pakistan’s intelligence agency and Bangladesh-based extremist organisations, official sources said on Sunday.

Six of the accused were arrested from different parts of Tamil Nadu and are being brought to Delhi for sustained interrogation, while two others were picked up earlier during follow-up operations linked to the same case. The arrests were made following specific intelligence inputs indicating the presence of a terror module operating across multiple states.

The crackdown comes amid a high alert issued by central intelligence agencies over a possible terror strike in Delhi, with particular concerns raised about sensitive locations and crowded public spaces, including prominent religious places. Sources said Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) had allegedly placed several key locations in India on its target list and was planning an attack using an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

In view of the threat perception, security measures in the capital have been significantly intensified . Additional police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at sensitive installations, transport hubs, markets, and tourist landmarks such as the Red Fort . Surveillance through CCTV networks has been stepped up, while bomb disposal squads, dog squads, and quick reaction teams have been placed on standby. Random vehicle checks and identity verification drives are also being conducted across Delhi.

Officials said the operation highlighted close coordination between central intelligence agencies and state police forces , particularly those of Delhi and Tamil Nadu. Central agencies, including the Intelligence Bureau, are assisting in the investigation, ensuring real-time intelligence sharing and coordinated action across jurisdictions to neutralise potential threats.

During searches, police recovered dozens of mobile phones and SIM cards from the suspects. These are being analysed to determine the extent of the network, funding patterns, and communication with foreign handlers. Preliminary investigations suggest the group was in contact with operatives linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and certain extremist outfits based in Bangladesh, pointing to cross-border linkages in the alleged conspiracy.

The suspects are likely to be booked under stringent anti-terror laws , including provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to criminal conspiracy and acts threatening national security. Officials said these provisions would allow agencies to conduct an in-depth probe into digital evidence, financial trails, and international connections.

Security agencies have also flagged heightened risks to crowded public places and major events , noting that terror groups often target such locations to cause maximum casualties and panic. Event organisers and local authorities have been advised to strictly adhere to security protocols.

The latest alert has been issued against the backdrop of the deadly car explosion near the Red Fort on November 10, 2025, which killed at least 13 people and injured over 20 others, heightening concerns over renewed attempts to target the capital.

Authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces , urging citizens to immediately report any suspicious activity, abandoned objects, or unusual movements to the nearest police station or emergency helpline. Officials emphasised that public vigilance, combined with robust intelligence sharing, remains vital in preventing terror incidents.