Indian security agencies have thwarted a major terror conspiracy allegedly planned by Pakistan-based handlers targeting multiple locations across northern India. Three accused were arrested in Ambala while allegedly transporting explosives intended for attacks in Delhi, Punjab, and Rajasthan.
Officials recovered around 2 kg of RDX and an improvised explosive device (IED) from the suspects. The explosives were reportedly concealed inside a tiffin box bomb placed on a motorcycle.
Arrest and Seizure
The arrests were carried out by the Special Task Force, which had received intelligence inputs about the suspects’ movement.
Authorities detained three individuals, including Ali Akbar, also known as Babu, who is believed to be a key operative of the network in India.
The suspects were apprehended while allegedly transporting explosives to plant at a selected target location in the Ambala cantonment area.
After the arrest, a Bomb Disposal Squad safely neutralised the IED recovered from the accused.
Pakistan-Based Handler Behind the Plot
During interrogation, investigators said the accused revealed that they were acting under instructions from Shehzad Bhatti, a Pakistan-based terrorist.
According to security agencies, the conspirators were instructed to carry out coordinated explosions across multiple locations in northern India.
Investigators said the accused conducted reconnaissance across several cities, recording videos of potential targets and sending them to their handlers in Pakistan through messaging platforms.
Targets Across Three States
The terror network reportedly surveyed several high-profile locations across different states.
Among the places that were allegedly considered as targets were:
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Safdarjung Hospital
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Nizamuddin Railway Station
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Shree Mata Balasundari Devi Mandir
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A politician’s residence in Ambala
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Several police stations in Punjab
Authorities said the final decision regarding the exact target location was to be made by the handler in Pakistan.
Earlier Attempt Planned in Rajasthan
Investigators also revealed that the accused had earlier attempted to carry out an explosion at Hanuman Garhi.
An IED had reportedly been planted there, but the attack did not take place because the supply of RDX from Pakistan was delayed.
After waiting several days, the suspects allegedly removed the device and continued reconnaissance in other states.
Alert Issued Over Missing Explosives
Security agencies have stated that some of the explosives originally intended for the earlier plan may still be unaccounted for.
Authorities have therefore urged citizens to remain alert and immediately report any suspicious objects or activity to local police.
Officials said the timely intelligence inputs and swift action by the Special Task Force prevented what could have been a major terror attack across multiple states.
