Four Arrested in Major Anti-Terror Operation
Delhi Police have dismantled an inter-state terror arms network allegedly backed by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), arresting four individuals in a coordinated operation. The arrests were made after a lengthy investigation into the illegal supply of weapons and explosives intended for terrorist activities in India.
Details of the Operation
According to a senior police official, the operation was conducted on the basis of specific intelligence inputs regarding the movement of arms across state borders. The accused were apprehended from different locations in Delhi-NCR, and a significant quantity of arms and ammunition was recovered from their possession.
The police seized three sophisticated pistols, a large number of live cartridges, four hand grenades, and a substantial amount of cash. Preliminary investigations suggest that the network was involved in supplying weapons to terror modules operating in various parts of the country.
ISI Link and Inter-State Network
Commissioner of Police (Delhi) confirmed that the arrested individuals have links with ISI handlers based in Pakistan. The network was found to be operating across multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana. The accused used coded language and encrypted communication channels to coordinate their activities.
One of the arrested suspects is a known criminal with a history of involvement in arms smuggling, while another is a former army personnel. The police are now probing the possibility of their involvement in previous terror incidents.
Recoveries and Evidence
During the raids, the police recovered a cache of weapons, including 10 country-made pistols, 5 kg of RDX explosives, and several detonators. Also seized were mobile phones, SIM cards, and documents that indicate the network's plans to target crowded places in the national capital.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) said, "This is a major breakthrough in our fight against terrorism. We have gathered substantial evidence that points to direct involvement of ISI in orchestrating these illegal activities."
Modus Operandi
The accused used a sophisticated modus operandi, procuring weapons from illegal factories in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and then transporting them to Delhi and other states. They used courier services and private vehicles to avoid detection. The payment was made through hawala channels, with the ISI providing financial backing.
Police sources revealed that the network had been active for over two years, and a detailed chart of their operations has been prepared. Further investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the network and their handlers abroad.
Impact on National Security
The busting of this network is seen as a significant victory for Indian security agencies. It has prevented potential terror attacks and disrupted a major supply line of weapons. The police have alerted other states to remain vigilant and share intelligence to dismantle similar networks.
Home Ministry officials have praised the Delhi Police for their swift action and emphasized the importance of inter-state cooperation in combating terrorism. The arrested individuals have been booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
