Intelligence agencies have busted a suspected terror module with links to Pakistan’s ISI, arresting eight individuals in a coordinated operation across West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Investigators said the module was in contact with a Bangladesh-based extremist network and was allegedly planning major attacks in different parts of the country.
Six suspects picked up in Tamil Nadu have been brought to Delhi for sustained interrogation, while two were arrested in West Bengal. Preliminary findings indicate that some of the accused are Bangladeshi nationals who were living in India using forged identity documents and had begun establishing a local support network.
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Plans to build organised cells
According to agencies, the group was working on creating small, compartmentalised cells across states to execute coordinated strikes. The suspects were allegedly receiving instructions from handlers across the border and were using digital communication channels to maintain contact. Raids led to the recovery of multiple mobile phones, SIM cards, laptops and other electronic devices.
Investigators believe the seized devices could yield chat records, funding trails and potential target details. Forensic examination is under way to identify additional operatives and any local facilitators who may have provided logistical support.
Direct contact with foreign handlers
Initial interrogation suggests the accused were in direct touch with foreign handlers and were using encrypted platforms to communicate. Agencies are also probing financial transactions linked to the module to establish whether funds were routed through informal channels or sleeper accounts.
Sources said the digital evidence may help map the wider network and reveal links with other modules that have surfaced in recent months.
Use of forged identity documents
Several fake identity papers and mobile connections were recovered from the suspects. Investigators said these were used to rent accommodation, open bank accounts and build communication infrastructure while maintaining anonymity. Such documentation, officials noted, is typically part of long-term operational planning by organised modules.
Heightened security measures
Following the arrests, security has been stepped up at key installations and sensitive locations across multiple cities. Intelligence units have issued alerts to state authorities, asking them to intensify surveillance of suspicious activities. Crowded public places, religious sites and vital government facilities are under enhanced security review.
More arrests likely
Leads obtained during questioning are being pursued to identify other members of the network. Agencies suspect the module may have a multi-layered structure with linkages in different states. Further arrests have not been ruled out once the digital forensics process is completed.
Focus on cross-border linkages
The probe is also examining possible infiltration routes, fake document networks and terror financing channels with cross-border connections. Investigators are assessing whether the module had operational ties with recently detected networks or was functioning independently under external direction.
Role of inter-agency coordination
Officials said the operation was the result of close coordination between central and state agencies, combining technical surveillance with field intelligence. Timely action helped neutralise the module before any attack could be carried out.
The investigation is ongoing, and agencies said every aspect of the case will be examined in depth to dismantle the entire network and prevent future attempts.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
