ATS Questions 112 People Across Maharashtra Over Links to Pakistan-Based Gangster
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) launched a coordinated statewide search operation on Friday morning, questioning 112 people across Maharashtra over their alleged links to a Pakistan-based gangster. The security operation commenced around 7:00 AM, with law enforcement teams conducting simultaneous searches at multiple locations across the state.
According to ATS officials, the individuals identified during the probe are being questioned directly at their residences. The large-scale crackdown involved coordinated efforts from all 14 ATS units operating across Maharashtra, who mobilized early in the morning to carry out the searches.
The investigation stems from inputs indicating that the Pakistan-based gangster, identified as Shehzad Bhatti, had been using various social media platforms to establish contact with youths in the region. Officials stated that Bhatti allegedly attempted to use these digital platforms to influence and incite the youths toward anti-national activities.
In response to these inputs, the Maharashtra ATS initiated the coordinated operation to thoroughly verify the nature of the online contacts between Bhatti and the questioned individuals. Investigators are currently examining digital evidence gathered during the searches to determine whether any unlawful activities were carried out.
The primary focus of the ongoing investigation is to establish the full extent of the alleged network and to determine if any criminal offences have been committed. While the questioning of the 112 individuals continues and digital evidence is being verified, officials confirmed that no arrests have been made so far in connection with the operation.
