NEW DELHI, Apr 21: In a significant breakthrough, the Special Cell of Delhi Police has dismantled a suspected terror module with alleged links to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), arresting two young operatives who were reportedly planning grenade attacks and targeted killings across the Delhi-NCR region.
The accused Rajveer (21) and Vivek Banjara (19) both residents of Gwalior were apprehended following a coordinated intelligence led operation. Officials stated that the arrests have averted imminent threats to public safety in the national capital and nearby areas.
According to investigators, the duo was acting on instructions from Pakistan based gangster Shahzad Bhatti, who is believed to be operating as a proxy for ISI. Authorities revealed that Bhatti, along with his associates, has been running a covert recruitment network targeting Indian youth through social media platforms.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Praveen Kumar Tripathi confirmed that a case was registered on March 31 after credible intelligence inputs indicated a conspiracy to carry out grenade attacks and selective assassinations in the Delhi-NCR belt.
The investigation first led to the arrest of Vivek Banjara from Dabra in Gwalior on April 16. His interrogation exposed the involvement of Rajveer, who was subsequently arrested from the Sarai Kale Khan area of New Delhi on April 18.
Police officials disclosed that Rajveer was allegedly preparing to target a prominent hotel in the region when he was intercepted. A pistol along with six live cartridges was recovered from his possession. Additionally, two mobile phones containing incriminating digital evidence, including videos and voice notes, were seized.
Investigations revealed that Rajveer had been directly in contact with Bhatti’s network and was managed by an operative identified as “Rana Bhai.” He reportedly played a key role in coordinating movements, arranging weapons, and planning execution strategies.
Vivek Banjara, introduced to the network by Rajveer, is said to have handled logistical support, including reconnaissance missions, transportation arrangements, and documentation of planned criminal acts. Authorities believe both accused were gradually radicalized and enticed with financial incentives to carry out violent operations.
Police further disclosed that in March, Rajveer was instructed to dispatch an associate to Ahmedabad to procure weapons. Vivek traveled for the task, though the transaction did not materialize. Later, on April 9, the two traveled to Amritsar, where they allegedly received firearms, ammunition, and cash.
The duo was reportedly assigned to carry out a shooting at a club in Zirakpur, which had earlier received extortion threats linked to Bhatti. However, the attempt on April 11 failed due to a malfunction in the weapon. Investigators said Vivek recorded the incident and shared it with their handler as proof of action.
Following the failed attempt, Rajveer concealed the weapon before returning to New Delhi and later revisited Punjab to collect additional arms and ammunition.
Authorities are now expanding the probe to uncover the full extent of the network, including identifying other recruits, handlers, and financial channels linked to the cross border conspiracy.
Officials emphasized that the operation highlights growing concerns over the misuse of social media platforms by hostile elements to radicalize and recruit youth for terror related activities.
Further investigation is underway.