The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has uncovered a significant terror network operating across several states. The main suspect, known as Saqib or “Devil,” has been actively involved in establishing and expanding a radical group independently. Saqib allegedly created more than twelve Telegram groups to recruit and radicalize young individuals, sharing incendiary and anti-national content along with videos related to terrorist activities. The network attracted members not only from Uttar Pradesh but also from neighboring regions, raising concerns about its size and influence.
According to ATS officials, Saqib utilized encrypted platforms to promote extremist beliefs and enlist followers. It is estimated that hundreds of users joined these groups, where inflammatory posts, terrorist attack videos, and propaganda materials were shared to influence and radicalize participants. Discussions within these groups reportedly included plans for carrying out bombings in cities like Delhi.
The investigation unveiled Saqib’s connections to Pakistan-based handlers through a contact in Dubai named Aqib. Subsequently, he started forming his own network and operational team. The module’s reach extended beyond Uttar Pradesh to Delhi, Haryana, and Mumbai, with efforts to train recruits for potential attacks within a short timeframe.
A significant discovery in the probe is Saqib’s alleged involvement with arms smugglers in Punjab, suggesting plans to acquire weapons through these channels. Evidence from mobile devices and interrogations indicated his initiation into firearms training. The ATS is actively monitoring the suspected arms procurement network, potentially linked to Aqib and other handlers.
Further interrogation of the suspects revealed a plot to sabotage railway infrastructure, including placing gas cylinders on tracks to cause derailments, with remote instructions provided by the handlers. In response, the ATS has initiated a review of incidents over the past 18 months involving objects placed on railway tracks, damage to signal systems, or related sabotage attempts in Uttar Pradesh and nearby regions. Location data from the suspects’ phones will be used to connect them to previous incidents as the investigation expands to uncover the network’s full scope.
Authorities disclosed that the group had conducted surveillance on critical sites, such as railway signal systems in cities like Ghaziabad, Aligarh, and Lucknow. Allegedly, they planned an arson attack near Lucknow railway station to disrupt signaling infrastructure. However, the ATS intervened and apprehended the suspects before the attack could be carried out. Officials suspect the module was part of a larger scheme to incite violence and disrupt public order by targeting essential infrastructure. Ongoing investigations aim to identify additional members and connections within the network.