Delhi Police Nabs Two Operatives in Major ISI-Linked Terror Conspiracy
In a significant breakthrough, Delhi Police has apprehended two individuals allegedly connected to Pakistan-based ISI proxy Shahzad Bhatti. The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into a criminal conspiracy aimed at executing target killings and firing incidents across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR).
Intelligence Inputs Lead to Swift Action
According to official statements, the Special Cell of Delhi Police received critical intelligence inputs indicating that Shahzad Bhatti, along with other ISI proxies, was collaborating with India-based accomplices to orchestrate grenade attacks and targeted assassinations in Delhi-NCR. In response, authorities filed a First Information Report (FIR) on March 31 under Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), setting the stage for a meticulous operation.
Arrests and Seizures Unfold Across Multiple Locations
The investigation led to the arrest of Vivek Banjara on April 16 in Dabra, located in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district. Following his apprehension, Vivek was remanded into police custody for five days. Interrogation of Vivek subsequently revealed crucial information, leading to the capture of the main accused, Rajveer, on April 18 in the Sarai Kale Khan area of Delhi. At the time of his arrest, Rajveer was allegedly preparing to launch an attack on a prominent hotel within the Delhi-NCR region.
During the operations, Delhi Police seized substantial evidence, including:
- One pistol
- Six live rounds of ammunition
- Two mobile phones containing incriminating videos and voice notes
Recruitment and Conspiracy Details Emerge
Investigations have uncovered that Rajveer was recruited via social media by an individual known as 'Rana Bhai', who is an associate of Shahzad Bhatti. Rajveer later introduced Vivek Banjara to both 'Rana Bhai' and Shahzad Bhatti, expanding the network's reach within India.
In March 2026, Shahzad Bhatti allegedly instructed Rajveer to send someone to Ahmedabad to collect weapons. Rajveer dispatched Vivek for this purpose; however, the delivery failed to materialize. Despite this setback, Bhatti arranged Rs 5,000 to cover Vivek's expenses during his stay in Ahmedabad, demonstrating the ongoing financial and logistical support from across the border.
Weapon Procurement and Failed Attack Attempts
On April 9, following directives from Shahzad Bhatti, Rajveer and Vivek Banjara traveled to Amritsar. There, they received one pistol, 15–20 live rounds, and Rs 20,000 from a designated location. This weapon was intended for use in an attack on a club in Zirakpur, SAS Nagar, which had previously received extortion threats from Shahzad Bhatti.
On April 11, Rajveer attempted to carry out the attack but was thwarted by a mechanical malfunction with the pistol. During this incident, Vivek recorded a video of the failed attempt, which was meant to be sent to Shahzad Bhatti as proof of their activities.
Ongoing Investigation and Broader Implications
The arrests highlight the persistent threat posed by cross-border terror networks and the critical role of intelligence-led policing in preempting potential attacks. Delhi Police continues to investigate the full extent of the conspiracy, including the involvement of other accomplices and the broader network orchestrated by Shahzad Bhatti and ISI proxies.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance and coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies to combat terrorism and ensure public safety in urban centers like Delhi-NCR. The seizure of weapons and digital evidence provides a solid foundation for further legal proceedings and dismantling of such nefarious plots.
