Guwahati: The special task force (STF) of Assam Police arrested three alleged operatives linked to the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti network during coordinated operations in Dhubri, Chirang and Barpeta districts on Friday night.The accused were identified as Akramul Islam, Aminul Rahman, and Abul Hussain. Officers said they carried out anti-national activities through digital communication platforms, and evidence has been found that they were involved in recruiting members, arranging weapons, and other related operations.STF senior superintendent of police Pranab Pegu said, “The network operates in association with, and under the directives of, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
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The arrests were carried out based on credible information. Records show that the network conducted attack operations in different parts of India, especially in Punjab, Haryana.”“Shahzad Bhatti network’s activities first came to notice in the state during an investigation in Nalbari, on the month of May 22, where the operative was arrested,” he said.Pegu also said the network was associated with several other organisations, including the Khalistan Armed Force (KAF), Punjab Sovereignty Alliance (PSA), and Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan (TTH). According to him, TTH was responsible for killing two Punjab police personnel in Feb and May.During Friday’s operation, the STF recovered five mobile phones, seven SIM cards, Aadhaar cards, bank passbooks, and other incriminating documents.“We have found evidence of their directives and funding, which is from Pakistan,” he said. The investigation is ongoing and the STF said the network’s full extent in the state, including its operational structure, links, activities, and other related aspects, is yet to be completely uncovered. A case has been registered at the STF Police Station under Sections 61(2), 113(6), 148, 149, and 152 of the BNS Act.
