Noida Arrests: UP ATS Nabs Two Accused Linked to Pakistani Criminal Network and ISI

Lucknow, April 24: In a major breakthrough against suspected cross-border terror activities, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested two individuals from Noida for their alleged involvement with Pakistani handlers, including operatives linked to the ISI. The arrests highlight a growing concern over the use of social media platforms to recruit and radicalise individuals for anti national activities.

The accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan, a resident of Meerut, and Sameer Khan from Delhi. According to officials, both individuals were allegedly in direct contact with Pakistani based operatives and criminal elements, and were in the process of planning activities aimed at disturbing public order and communal harmony.

Social Media Used as Recruitment Tool
Senior officials revealed that the investigation began after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of sleeper cells being developed through platforms such as Instagram. These networks were reportedly designed to lure Indian youths with monetary incentives and ideological influence.

ADGP (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash stated that Pakistani-based gangsters Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jatt, along with certain radical online influencers, were allegedly acting under instructions from the ISI to recruit and manipulate individuals in India. Their objective, according to the ATS, was to create unrest and destabilise peace through coordinated actions.

Alleged Plans and Financial Incentives
Preliminary findings suggest that Tushar Chauhan had established contact with these handlers through social media channels and later transitioned to encrypted communication methods, including voice and video-based messaging. To gain trust, Chauhan reportedly created multiple online identities and maintained consistent interaction with the network.

Officials claimed that Chauhan was allegedly assigned tasks that included conducting reconnaissance of sensitive locations and planning attacks. He was reportedly promised financial compensation, including an upfront payment and a larger sum upon completion of the assigned tasks. There were also claims of offers to facilitate international travel through third countries.

Role of Co-accused in Expanding Network
Sameer Khan is alleged to have played a supporting role in the network. Investigators believe he was tasked with spreading propaganda, including writing slogans linked to extremist ideologies and recruiting additional individuals into the network.

The ATS stated that both accused were coordinating their activities and were preparing to act on instructions received from their handlers. Authorities also indicated that threats had been issued to certain individuals, with foreign operatives reportedly joining calls to guide and monitor the process.

Arms Recovery and Legal Action
During the arrest operation in Noida, security personnel recovered a pistol, five cartridges, and a knife from the possession of the accused. A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Arms Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Officials confirmed that further investigation is underway, and custody of the accused will be sought to uncover additional links, potential collaborators, and the broader structure of the alleged network.

Rising Concern Over Digital Radicalisation
This case underscores the increasing use of digital platforms in facilitating cross-border criminal and terror-related activities. Security agencies have reiterated the need for vigilance and awareness, particularly among young internet users who may be targeted through deceptive online tactics.

The Noida ISI linked arrest case serves as a stark reminder of evolving security challenges and the importance of proactive intelligence operations in preventing potential threats