Noida shocker: ₹3 lakh terror deal, ISI handlers and a Dubai escape plan exposed

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) on Thursday arrested two 20-year-old men in Noida for allegedly operating under the direction of Pakistan-based handlers linked to the ISI and working to destabilise internal security.

The arrests come amid inputs that hostile networks were attempting to recruit and radicalise Indian youth through social media, with investigators pointing to a broader effort to create sleeper cells and carry out targeted attacks.

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The accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan, also known as Hizbullah Ali Khan, and Samir Khan. Officials said they were apprehended with a pistol, live cartridges and a knife.

Social media used to lure and radicalise youth

According to the ATS, the duo was acting on instructions from ISI handlers and had established links with both terror groups and criminal networks. They allegedly used Instagram and other platforms to influence and recruit young people, with the aim of building local modules.

Investigators said the two were in contact with gangsters Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jatt. The network was working towards setting up sleeper cells that could be activated for reconnaissance of sensitive sites and targeted killings.

Money, foreign escape route promised for attacks

The ATS said Bhatti had offered Tushar ₹3 lakh to carry out the assignments. A part of the amount was paid in advance, with assurances of a passport and safe passage to Pakistan through Dubai after the attacks were executed.

Officials further claimed that the operation was not limited to criminal elements but had direct links to ISI operatives identified as Major Hamid, Major Iqbal and Major Anwar. These handlers are believed to have facilitated the supply of funds and weapons recovered from the accused.

Role of second accused and terror outreach

Samir Khan was allegedly given the job of helping a radical group called Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan, or TTH, grow its presence and reach more people. His role included recruitment and spreading propaganda through graffiti to instil fear and attract sympathisers.

Case registered under UAPA and other laws

A case has been registered at the ATS police station in Lucknow under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, the Arms Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The charges relate to criminal conspiracy, actions threatening national sovereignty and illegal possession of arms. The ATS is now seeking police custody of the accused to probe the local support system and identify other sleeper cells linked to the TTH module.