Assam STF Arrests Three in Pakistan-Linked Terror Probe

Guwahati: Assam Special Task Force officers caught three suspected terror operatives during coordinated raids on July 24. Police struck in Dhubri, Chirang, and Barpeta. The arrests connect to STF Police Station Case No. 06/2026. This investigation targets the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network.

Authorities identified the suspects as 26-year-old Akramul Islam of Beparipara, 22-year-old Aminur Rahman of Chirang, and 54-year-old Abdul Hussain of Barpeta. Agents seized five mobile phones and seven SIM cards. They also took Aadhaar cards, bank passbooks, and debit cards. Investigators called these items incriminating evidence.

The network allegedly operates under the direction of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence. Handlers use encrypted apps to run the group. Officials claim the organization recruits members, builds sleeper cells, and gathers intelligence across India. They hide their work behind front groups. These include the Khalistan Armed Force, Punjab Sovereignty Alliance, Khalistan Liberation Army, Sher-e-Punjab Brigade, United Sikh Brotherhood, Sikh Tigers of Khalistan, and Tehrik-e-Taliban Hindustan. The STF noted, "TTH had claimed responsibility for two targeted killings of Punjab Police personnel on February 22 and May 24, 2026."

This case began with a probe in Nalbari district. That initial operation led to one arrest on May 22, 2026. Detectives are still hunting for more links. They want to find every person tied to the network.