Security agencies foil Pak-linked terror plot; Nine arrested across India, serial blasts planned

NEW DELHI: Indian security agencies have foiled an alleged Pakistan-backed terror plot aimed at carrying out a series of explosions in military areas of Delhi and other strategic locations across the country. Nine members of the suspected terror module have been arrested by the Delhi Police Special Cell from different states.

During the operation, police recovered a Glock semi-automatic pistol, 25 rounds of ammunition, and four grenades allegedly manufactured at a Pakistani government ordnance factory. Investigators believe Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI, and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim were involved in the planning of the attacks. The grenades were later safely destroyed at an isolated location in Mehrauli, Delhi, with the assistance of the National Security Guard (NSG).

According to investigators, the group planned to target airports, railway stations, stock exchanges, power plants, bridges, and commercial centres. Strategic installations in Delhi and other major cities were also reportedly on their target list.

Those arrested include Touqeer and Arbaz from Mumbai, underworld associate Vijay Shooter from Pune, Nitish Paswan from Sahibganj in Jharkhand, Harvinder and Manjit from Delhi, and two individuals from Punjab. A 66-year-old Nepalese national was also taken into custody in Delhi while allegedly attempting to deliver funds to the group.

Security agencies believe more people may be involved in the network. Investigations and search operations have been intensified, and security has been tightened in Delhi and other sensitive locations.

Planning and instructions came from Pakistan
Investigators say instructions regarding where and how to carry out the attacks were allegedly sent from Pakistan. The operation is believed to have received support from Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), networks linked to Dawood Ibrahim, and Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti.

Delhi Police have also found alleged links between the arrested suspects and Munna Jhingra, a close associate of Dawood Ibrahim. Munna, an Indian national believed to be operating from Pakistan, is suspected of supervising terror-related activities. Authorities suspect he may also be known by the name Syed Mudassar Hussain.

Key targets identified by investigators

1. Strategic and sensitive locations in Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities
2. Important government buildings and crowded public places
3. Areas with a heavy presence of security personnel

Glock Pistol
The Glock is a lightweight semi-automatic pistol manufactured by Austrian firearms company Glock Ges.m.b.H.. It is widely known for its reliability and accuracy. Unlike traditional all-steel handguns, Glock pistols use a durable polymer frame, making them lighter and easier to carry.