In a significant counter-terrorism operation, the Delhi Police Special Cell has successfully dismantled a Pakistan-linked terror module that was actively planning attacks within India. The operation led to the arrest of three individuals who were allegedly receiving instructions and support from handlers based across the border.
The Arrests and Seizures
The police apprehended three men identified as Mohd. Shahnawaz alias Shani, Mohd. Rizwan alias Junaid, and Mohd. Farooq alias Tauhid. These arrests were made following credible intelligence about their involvement in anti-national activities. The operation, which culminated on a recent Saturday, resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of arms and incriminating evidence.
Among the items seized were two sophisticated pistols, 150 grams of explosive material, 50 grams of shrapnel (nuts and bolts intended to maximize damage), two hand grenades, and a wireless communication set, specifically a walkie-talkie. The recovery of these items indicates the group was in an advanced stage of planning a violent attack.
International Connections and Modus Operandi
Investigations have revealed that the module was operating under the direct guidance of handlers based in Pakistan. The arrested individuals were in contact with these handlers through secure social media applications and encrypted communication channels. Their ideological alignment was found to be with major global terrorist organizations, namely ISIS and Al-Qaeda.
The police disclosed that the suspects had conducted extensive recces of several crowded and sensitive locations in and around the national capital region. The module was specifically tasked with executing a 'lone wolf' attack or a vehicle-ramming assault to create mass casualties and instill fear. The use of a wireless set suggests a planned, coordinated effort for their operations.
Background of the Accused and Ongoing Probe
Preliminary questioning has uncovered that one of the accused, Mohd. Shahnawaz, had previously been detained under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act. This history points towards a deeper involvement in subversive activities. The other accused, Rizwan and Farooq, were also actively recruited into this network.
The Delhi Police Special Cell is now delving deeper into the module's network across India to identify and neutralize any other potential associates. They are also intensifying their efforts to trace the digital footprint and financial trails leading back to the Pakistani handlers. The investigation aims to completely unravel the conspiracy and prevent any future threats to national security.
This successful operation by the Delhi Police has averted a potential tragedy and highlights the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism. It also underscores the critical need for continued vigilance and advanced intelligence-gathering mechanisms to safeguard the nation.
