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In a major counter intelligence operation, the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police has arrested three alleged operatives linked to the Pakistan based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), a terror criminal network suspected of maintaining ties with Pakistan's Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) and other anti India organisations.
The arrests were made during a coordinated operation on July 24. The accused have been identified as Akramul Islam, 26, of Beparipara in Dhubri, Aminur Rahman, 22, of Dhupiri, Panbari in Chirang, and Abdul Hussain, 54, of Dabandia, Kolgachia in Barpeta.
Electronic Devices, Documents Seized
During the raids, STF recovered five mobile phones, seven SIM cards, Aadhaar cards, bank passbooks, debit cards and several other objectionable documents from the accused.
According to STF officials, the Pakistan based Shahzad Bhatti Network allegedly operates through encrypted clandestine communication systems and works at the behest of Pakistan based anti India forces while maintaining links with Pakistan's ISI.
Speaking to reporters, SSP STF Pranab Kumar Pegu said preliminary investigations indicate that SBN functions as a terror criminal network involved in online recruitment, radicalisation, anti India propaganda, intelligence gathering, logistical support, illegal arms collection and the creation of sleeper cells. The three arrested individuals are suspected of facilitating these activities.
Further investigation has revealed that the network allegedly operates through or maintains links with several banned and extremist outfits, including Khalistan Armed Force, Punjab Sovereignty Alliance, Khalistan Liberation Army, Sher e Punjab Brigade, United Sikh Brotherhood, Sikh Tigers of Khalistan and Tehrik e Taliban Hindustan.
Police said Tehrik e Taliban Hindustan claimed responsibility for the killings of two Punjab Police personnel on February 22 and May 24.
The network's presence in Assam first surfaced on May 22, 2026, following the arrest of an alleged Shahzad Bhatti Network member in Nalbari district.
The STF has launched a detailed investigation to trace the network's local and interstate links, financial transactions and possible sleeper cell operations. Officials said further arrests cannot be ruled out as the probe continues.
