UP Anti-Terrorism Squad Intensifies Probe After Suspending Officer in Bijnor Terror Module Case
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has significantly escalated its investigation into a suspected terror module following the suspension of a sub-inspector in Bijnor. The officer was suspended for allegedly providing a clean chit to a key accused and submitting a misleading investigative report.
Suspension and Transfer of Officials Over Investigation Lapses
Sub-inspector Satyendra Malik has been suspended from duty for filing a final report that incorrectly identified an assault rifle seen in a viral video as a mere toy. The video, which went viral, showed the accused holding what appeared to be an AK-47 rifle and grenades.
In a related disciplinary action, Circle Officer Nitesh Pratap Singh of Najibabad has been transferred from his post due to supervisory failures in overseeing the case properly. These administrative moves underscore serious concerns about the initial handling of what authorities now believe is a dangerous terror network.
Details of the Suspected Terror Module and Their Alleged Plans
The Uttar Pradesh ATS has secured a five-day remand of the accused individuals, extending until April 9, during which intensive interrogation is underway. Preliminary findings from the investigation reveal alarming details about the group's intended activities.
According to officials, the module was allegedly planning multiple acts of sabotage with potentially catastrophic consequences:
- Tampering with railway signaling systems to disrupt train operations
- Targeting vehicles transporting gas cylinders to trigger large-scale explosions
- Carrying out arson attacks to create widespread panic
Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash stated that the module was led by Meerut-based individual Shakib, who also goes by the alias 'Devil'. The investigation has uncovered that Shakib allegedly recruited Arbaab from his native village, while another operative named Aqib—currently believed to be hiding in Dubai—facilitated connections with handlers linked to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency.
Evidence Recovery and Financial Transactions
Authorities have recovered seven mobile phones from the accused individuals containing substantial incriminating material. This evidence includes:
- Videos documenting arson attacks carried out by the group
- Visual recordings showing the accused posing with assault rifles
- Communications related to their alleged activities
The investigation has revealed that the group allegedly shared videos of their arson attacks with their handlers and received payments through QR code transactions. This modern method of financial transfer highlights the evolving tactics employed by such networks.
Intended Target and Current Status
Officials have disclosed that the accused were allegedly planning a major attack in Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, when they were apprehended. The timely intervention by security forces potentially prevented a significant security incident in the populous state capital.
The Uttar Pradesh ATS continues its rigorous interrogation of the detained individuals while expanding the scope of its investigation to uncover any additional connections or planned activities associated with this suspected terror module.
