A statewide security operation is unfolding across Maharashtra as investigators trace alleged digital connections to a Pakistan-based gangster. Authorities are now examining online interactions and communication records.
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The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) carried out a large-scale operation across the state on Friday as part of an investigation into alleged links between several people and Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti. Officials said that 112 individuals have been identified and questioned so far during the ongoing inquiry.
According to the Maharashtra ATS, officers from all 14 ATS units across the state launched coordinated searches at around 7 a.m. Teams visited the homes and other locations of people who were allegedly in contact with Bhatti through social media platforms. The purpose of the operation is to verify the nature of these contacts and gather more evidence.
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The investigation is spread across multiple parts of Maharashtra. ATS teams carried out searches and inquiries in Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Mira Road, Sangli, Satara and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, along with several other locations.
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Officials said the operation is still in progress, and more people could be questioned if new information comes to light. The agency has not announced any arrests in connection with the investigation so far.
The ATS is closely examining whether the identified individuals had any meaningful connection with Shahzad Bhatti or were only in contact through social media. Investigators are studying online conversations, communication records and digital interactions to understand the extent of the alleged links.
According to the agency, Bhatti is suspected of using social media platforms to influence or encourage young people towards anti-national activities. Investigators are trying to determine whether any of the individuals contacted by him were involved in or influenced by such efforts.
The ATS said it is collecting information related to communication patterns, online activities and any possible association with the Pakistan-based gangster. Officials added that further action will depend on what is uncovered during the investigation.
The Maharashtra ATS has made it clear that the inquiry is at a preliminary stage. Officials stressed that questioning is being carried out to verify facts and establish whether there is any criminal or security-related concern.
The agency said additional legal action, if required, will be based entirely on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
Security agencies have been closely monitoring Shahzad Bhatti, who has become a significant concern for law enforcement in India. Once known as a social media influencer, Bhatti is now believed to be operating from Pakistan and is suspected of playing a role in creating networks that target people through online platforms.
Police agencies say his alleged activities have made him one of the latest challenges for India’s security system, particularly because of the increasing use of social media to establish contacts and spread influence.
Officials said that since the beginning of 2025, Indian security agencies have busted nine separate modules allegedly linked to Bhatti.
Of these, four modules were uncovered by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad, while five were dismantled by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police. Investigators believe Bhatti has emerged as the central figure behind these cases.
An Intelligence Bureau official said the repeated discovery of such modules points to a changing security threat. According to the official, specialised agencies usually expect those running such networks to slow down or withdraw after repeated crackdowns. However, investigators believe Bhatti may instead be waiting for security agencies to lower their guard before attempting further activities.
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