Maharashtra ATS Questions 66 in Pune Over Pakistan Gangster Links

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) conducted searches across Pune district on Tuesday, questioning 66 individuals over their alleged links with Pakistan-based gangster Shehzad Bhatti. The operation, which began around 7 am, was carried out with the assistance of the Pune City Police, Pune Rural Police, and Pimpri-Chinchwad Police.

The searches are part of an expanding statewide probe into a suspected network of operatives and facilitators. Officials said those questioned had allegedly been in direct or indirect contact with Bhatti or persons associated with his network. Investigators are attempting to identify local facilitators, suspected associates, and support networks that may have aided the Pakistan-based gangster's operations in the state.

As part of the probe, the ATS is analysing mobile phones, call detail records (CDRs), internet-based calls, chat histories, social media accounts, and other digital devices seized from the 66 individuals. The goal is to determine the nature and extent of their alleged contact with Bhatti and his associates.

The operation comes days after the ATS conducted coordinated searches across Maharashtra, during which more than 100 persons were questioned over their alleged links with the Pakistan-based gangster. Bhatti is under investigation by security agencies for allegedly using social media platforms to establish contact with Indian youth and attempting to influence or radicalise them for activities deemed prejudicial to national security.

The statewide operation was launched on the basis of intelligence inputs suggesting Bhatti's involvement in such activities. Officials said the investigation has since expanded beyond online communication to include scrutiny of financial transactions allegedly linked to Bhatti's network. Investigators are examining whether funds were transferred to individuals in India, the purpose of such transactions, and whether they formed part of a larger organised network.

No arrests have been made so far, and officials said further legal action would depend on the forensic examination of the seized digital devices and analysis of the financial trail. The ATS is working to uncover the extent of Bhatti's network in Maharashtra and identify any potential threats to national security.

The probe into Bhatti's activities is a significant development in the state's efforts to combat terrorism and radicalisation. The use of social media platforms to influence and radicalise Indian youth is a growing concern, and the ATS is working to stay ahead of such threats.

In recent years, Maharashtra has seen a number of cases involving Pakistan-based gangsters and terrorists attempting to influence and radicalise Indian youth. The state's anti-terrorism squad has been working to disrupt such networks and prevent potential threats to national security.

The investigation into Bhatti's network is ongoing, and officials said they would continue to follow all leads and gather evidence to build a strong case against those involved. The operation is a testament to the state's commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.

The case highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in preventing and investigating terrorist activities. The ATS's efforts to disrupt Bhatti's network and identify potential threats to national security are crucial in maintaining the safety and security of Maharashtra and the country as a whole.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra ATS's probe into Pakistan-based gangster Shehzad Bhatti's network is a significant development in the state's efforts to combat terrorism and radicalisation. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are working to uncover the extent of Bhatti's network and identify any potential threats to national security. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in preventing and investigating terrorist activities.