Govt busts ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti network, over 200 arrested across 14 states

Security agencies have launched a major crackdown on the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), with Union Home Minister Amit Shah saying more than 200 alleged operatives were arrested across 14 states ahead of Independence Day, disrupting plans for subversive attacks.

The coordinated operation was conducted on August 12 using a real-time intelligence-sharing mechanism involving state police forces. The government describes SBN as a Pakistan-based terror syndicate allegedly involved in grenade, IED and petrol-bomb attacks, targeted killings and reconnaissance of sensitive locations.

Authorities reported recovering IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges and CCTV cameras allegedly intended for surveillance and espionage. The government said the Pakistan markings on grenades indicated cross-border links. More than 80 FIRs have cumulatively been registered against SBN-linked accused under laws including the UAPA, BNS, Arms Act, NDPS Act and Explosive Substances Act.

The operation followed months of investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into Bhatti's alleged activities. In June 2026, the agency searched 18 locations across nine districts in Punjab and Haryana, seizing digital devices, documents and information relating to communications, financial transactions and suspected associates. The material was sent for forensic and technical examination to uncover the wider cross-border conspiracy.

NIA investigations have linked Shahzad Bhatti, who has been chargesheeted as an absconder, to the March 2025 grenade attack at the residence of Jalandhar-based social media influencer Roger Sandhu. Investigators have also alleged his involvement in the November 2025 Sirsa police station explosion and the January 2026 Baldev Nagar police station blast in Ambala.

The latest arrests represent a significant disruption, but authorities' continuing investigations indicate that the wider network is still being mapped. Further analysis of seized communications, finances and digital evidence could help identify remaining handlers, facilitators, recruiters and local modules.

While Shah has described the network as dismantled, the continuing NIA probe means the full extent of the alleged cross-border conspiracy remains under investigation.