The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested two Class VIII dropouts on Wednesday for their alleged links with Pakistan-based terror handlers. According to investigators, the accused conducted reconnaissance of potential targets in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra, and received payments through multiple bank accounts.
Details of the Arrest
The accused, Daniyal Ashraf (23) of Barabanki and Krishna Mishra (20) of Kushinagar, were taken into custody by ATS teams following intelligence inputs about a Pakistan-backed conspiracy to radicalise Indian youths through Instagram and other social media platforms. The plan was to use these youths as sleeper cell operatives.
Recruitment and Radicalisation
ATS officials revealed that both accused had studied only up to Class VIII and were lured into the network through online propaganda and promises of money. The recruitment and radicalisation process was allegedly coordinated by Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti along with associates Abid Jatt and Hammad. They maintained contact with the duo through social media platforms and encrypted calls.
Reconnaissance Activities
Officers said the accused were tasked with conducting reconnaissance of police establishments, security installations, and other sensitive targets in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra. Investigators claimed that videos, photographs, and location details of certain police stations and sensitive sites were shared by the accused with Pakistan-based handlers.
Digital Evidence
According to the ATS, digital evidence found on the mobile phones of the accused included video call recordings, WhatsApp group conversations, voice notes, reconnaissance videos, and chats with foreign numbers allegedly linked to Pakistani operatives. Officials also found evidence suggesting that the accused received money through different bank accounts and digital channels to support operational activities and maintain communication with handlers.
Further Findings
An officer stated, “Daniyal Ashraf sought firearms and funds from the handlers for carrying out attacks, while Krishna Mishra’s phone reportedly contained videos discussing the shooting of personnel in uniform and surveillance footage of potential targets.” Police recovered firearms, live cartridges, and mobile phones from the two accused.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials confirmed that both accused have been produced before the court, and an investigation is underway to identify additional operatives and unravel the wider terror network operating through social media platforms.
