350 Arrested in Nationwide Crackdown on Shahzad Bhatti Network
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announces the dismantling of over 40 modules linked to cross-border smuggling activities.
More than 350 individuals arrested across 15 states.
Shahzad Bhatti network declared a terrorist organization under UAPA.
New Extradition Portal launched to expedite the return of fugitives.
In a significant operation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on September 28, 2026, that authorities have dismantled over 40 modules associated with the Shahzad Bhatti network, resulting in the arrest of 350 individuals across 15 states. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to combat cross-border smuggling of weapons, explosives, and narcotics.
The Shahzad Bhatti network, which has been linked to various illicit activities, has now been officially classified as a terrorist organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The government has registered more than 100 First Information Reports (FIRs) against its members, highlighting the seriousness of the offenses involved.
During the inauguration of the 'PRAHAAR – Counter Terrorism Policy and Strategy' conference in Delhi, Mr. Shah emphasized the importance of improved coordination between security and investigative agencies. He noted that the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and urged for enhanced collaboration among various stakeholders to ensure timely counter-terrorism operations.
The Home Minister also revealed that between 2019 and 2026, 288 fugitive criminals were successfully extradited from 36 countries, showcasing the government's commitment to bringing criminals to justice. The newly launched Extradition Portal aims to streamline these efforts, enabling state police forces to work closely with central agencies.
Looking ahead, Mr. Shah called for the PRAHAAR strategy to be fortified through ongoing analysis of terror incidents and the establishment of a robust mechanism for the next decade. He urged police forces to adopt a proactive stance in counter-terrorism efforts, ensuring that responses are institutionalized and automated at all levels of the security framework.
