Uttarakhand STF Uncovers Extensive ISI-Linked Terror Network Following Dehradun Arrest
The Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF), intensifying its investigation after the arrest of a suspected "lone wolf operative" linked to the ISI-affiliated terror outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan (TTH), has made a significant breakthrough. Authorities have identified at least 8 to 10 highly suspicious contact numbers extracted from the accused's mobile device, pointing to a broader, coordinated network with potential operatives spread across multiple Indian states.
Arrest and Initial Investigation Details
Vikrant Kashyap, a 29-year-old garage worker employed in Dehradun's Premnagar area, was apprehended by the STF on April 10 following an extensive two-month surveillance operation monitoring his social media activities. Kashyap stands accused of engaging in highly sensitive and dangerous communications, specifically sharing geotagged locations of critical installations in Dehradun, including the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA), with his handlers based in Pakistan via various social media platforms.
Cross-State Terror Links Uncovered
An STF officer deeply involved in the ongoing investigation revealed crucial details to the media, stating, "The contact numbers discovered on the accused's phone were actively being used across several key states, including Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. We strongly suspect that the individuals utilizing these numbers were integral members of the same terror outfit and maintained direct communication with ISI handlers operating from Pakistan." This discovery suggests a well-organized, pan-India network with direct foreign backing.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Response
STF Senior Superintendent of Police Ajai Singh confirmed that the investigative findings have been promptly and securely shared with the concerned law enforcement and intelligence agencies in all five identified states to facilitate immediate and necessary action. "We have already disseminated the critical probe findings with the relevant agencies in these five states to ensure coordinated and decisive action. Our investigation remains active and ongoing to uncover further details and connections," SSP Singh emphasized, highlighting the collaborative security effort.
Previous Allegations and Serious Charges
Earlier in the investigation, the STF had disclosed that Kashyap was allegedly assigned by his Pakistani handlers to orchestrate grenade attacks targeting specific entities, including Hindu right-wing organizations and a prominent Muslim Supreme Court lawyer. Furthermore, investigators detailed that as part of his formal induction into the terror outfit, Kashyap was supplied with a .32 bore Italian pistol by a local associate of his primary Pakistani handler, who is also linked to known gangster Shahzad Bhatti, underscoring the complex and dangerous nature of the network's operations.
