Amit Shah: ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network destroyed, 200 operatives arrested before I-Day
Synopsis
Indian security forces dismantled the ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network just before Independence Day, arresting over 200 operatives across 14 states in a coordinated sweep. Seized arms included grenades with Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings — pointing to direct cross-border material support. The network had also targeted family members of six sitting West Bengal Cabinet ministers through an espionage operative.
Key Takeaways
Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed the dismantling of the ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) on 17 August , ahead of Independence Day .
More than 200 operatives were arrested in coordinated operations across 14 states .
Seized material included IEDs , grenades with Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings , pistols , live cartridges , and CCTV cameras used for espionage.
The West Bengal STF had earlier arrested suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative Mohammad Hamim Mondal and associate Arpita Sarkar in late July .
The SBN reportedly targeted family members of at least six sitting West Bengal Cabinet members through Sarkar.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday, 17 August announced that Indian security forces had dismantled the ISI-backed Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) ahead of Independence Day, neutralising a planned series of subversive attacks across the country. More than 200 operatives of the terror network were arrested during coordinated operations spanning 14 states.
Key Developments
Shah disclosed the operation in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the Modi government had ‘destroyed the ISI-backed terror group Shahzad Bhatti Network ahead of Independence Day and thwarted its plans for subversive attacks by arresting more than 200 operatives.’
He further said that ‘Indian security forces ripped apart the network by launching coordinated operations across different locations in 14 states, upholding a brilliant example of India’s zero-tolerance towards terrorism.’
Arms and Espionage Equipment Seized
Substantial recoveries were made from the ISI-funded network during the operations. Seized material reportedly included IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges, and CCTV cameras used for espionage purposes. The presence of Pakistan Ordnance Factory-marked grenades points to direct material support from across the border, according to officials.
West Bengal Arrests and Cabinet Targeting
The crackdown follows arrests made in late July by the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF), which initially detained two primary suspects: suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative Mohammad Hamim Mondal and his associate Arpita Sarkar. According to officials, the SBN had specifically targeted the family members of at least six sitting members of the West Bengal Cabinet through Sarkar. Handlers reportedly maintained contact with her via encrypted messages on multiple social media platforms.
The STF has since widened its probe into connected surveillance and espionage networks across the region, examining seized digital devices and international communication links.
What This Signals
This is not an isolated incident. The multi-state sweep — executed ahead of a high-security national event — reflects a pattern of pre-emptive counter-terror operations that Indian agencies have increasingly deployed around Republic Day and Independence Day. The SBN’s reach across 14 states and its targeting of elected officials’ families marks a notable escalation in the operational ambition of ISI-linked networks inside India.
Further details on the identities of additional arrested operatives and the specific states covered are awaited from security agencies.
Point of View
Surveillance, and political pressure. The Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings on recovered grenades, if verified, would constitute hard evidence of state-linked material support — a detail that will carry weight in diplomatic and legal arenas. What remains unanswered is how such a wide network operated across 14 states without earlier detection, a question that points as much to intelligence gaps as to operational success.
NationPress
17 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN)?
The Shahzad Bhatti Network is an ISI-backed terror and espionage group that Indian security forces dismantled ahead of Independence Day 2025. It was involved in planning subversive attacks and conducting surveillance operations inside India, including targeting family members of West Bengal Cabinet ministers.
How many operatives were arrested in the Shahzad Bhatti Network crackdown?
More than 200 operatives of the Shahzad Bhatti Network were arrested by Indian security forces in coordinated operations conducted across 14 states. Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed the arrests in a post on X on 17 August.
What weapons and equipment were recovered from the SBN?
Security forces recovered IEDs, grenades bearing Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings, pistols, live cartridges, and CCTV cameras used for espionage from the ISI-funded network. The Pakistan Ordnance Factory markings on the grenades indicate direct material support from across the border, according to officials.
Who were the first suspects arrested in the Shahzad Bhatti case?
The West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) arrested suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative Mohammad Hamim Mondal and his associate Arpita Sarkar in late July. Officials say Sarkar was used by SBN handlers to target the families of at least six sitting West Bengal Cabinet members.
Which states were covered in the anti-SBN operations?
According to Home Minister Amit Shah, coordinated operations were launched across 14 states to dismantle the Shahzad Bhatti Network. Specific states have not yet been officially disclosed; further details are awaited from security agencies.
