HAILAKANDI, AUGUST 26: Assam Police’s Special Task Force (STF) has apprehended another alleged operative linked to the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), taking the total number of arrests in the ongoing investigation to four.
According to an update shared by STF Assam on X, the latest suspect was apprehended from Ramnathpur in Hailakandi district during the early hours of August 26, 2026.
The arrest marks a significant development in the STF’s continuing investigation into the alleged activities and local links of the Shahzad Bhatti Network, which investigators have described as a Pakistan-based network with suspected links to extremist and anti-national activities.
With the latest apprehension, the total number of suspected operatives arrested in connection with the case has risen to four. The STF had earlier arrested three alleged operatives from Dhubri, Chirang and Barpeta districts as part of the same investigation.
The earlier arrests were made after investigators reportedly developed leads regarding the alleged presence of local associates connected to the network. The latest operation in Hailakandi was carried out with the assistance of local police.
According to the related information available in the case, investigators are examining the extent of the latest suspect’s alleged association with the network. Documents and other materials reportedly recovered during the operation are also being scrutinised as part of the ongoing probe.
Investigators have alleged that the Shahzad Bhatti Network is involved in recruiting local associates and using them for activities such as reconnaissance and gathering information about important locations, including police, defence and religious establishments. The network has also been linked by investigators to alleged acts of violence, including attacks involving grenades, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and petrol bombs, as well as targeted killings in different parts of the country.
The STF’s latest action is part of its continuing crackdown on suspected networks and individuals allegedly involved in activities that could pose a threat to national security.
Police are expected to further question the latest apprehended individual and examine the evidence collected during the investigation to determine whether there are additional local links or associates connected to the alleged network.
Further investigation into the case is underway.
