A terror module allegedly linked to Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI, is believed to have drawn up plans to target a historic temple in the national capital, a military installation in neighbouring Haryana, and a popular dhaba along the Delhi–Sonipat highway, investigators have revealed, indicating a coordinated plot with cross-border links.
The disclosures emerged during the interrogation of nine suspects arrested by the Delhi Police Special Cell as part of its ongoing “Gang Bust Operation 2.0,” officials said on Friday. The accused are believed to be associated with a network linked to alleged handler Shahzad Bhatti, while investigators are also probing suspected links to Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI.
According to sources, one of the arrested operatives had conducted reconnaissance of a prominent temple in Delhi, capturing images and sharing them with handlers based in Pakistan via social media platforms. Officials said the exchange of visual inputs is being treated as a key piece of evidence indicating pre-operational planning.
Investigators are currently examining digital devices seized from the accused to trace communication patterns, funding routes, and the broader network behind the module.
The suspected targets—a religious site, a roadside eatery frequented by travellers, and a military camp—are seen as an attempt to create widespread disruption and fear across both civilian and security domains.
Security agencies are now working to identify additional operatives and sleeper cells that may be linked to the module across various states. The arrests followed coordinated raids at multiple locations, suggesting the network had a wider footprint than initially assessed.
Authorities have heightened surveillance at sensitive installations and public spaces as the investigation continues, with further arrests not ruled out.
