The West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) is probing a Jaish-e-Mohammed-linked module — recently dismantled by the agency — that was allegedly tasked by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) with recruiting women to run honey-trap operations targeting the sons of ministers across West Bengal and other states. Investigators say the module was designed as a multi-purpose network with objectives far beyond conventional terror strikes.

Scope of the Alleged Plot

According to officials, the module had been assigned at least three distinct objectives by its ISI handlers: targeting the Chief Minister of West Bengal, expanding an influencer-based disinformation network, and recruiting women operatives for honey-trap assignments. 'Setting honey traps was one of the main intentions of this module,' an official said.

Investigators have further established that the module was allegedly scouting for young women who would be promised 'hefty payments' in exchange for targeting specific individuals — identified as sons of sitting ministers. Once recruited, these women were reportedly directed to set traps on designated targets.

Abduction and Extortion Plans Uncovered

Beyond honey-trapping, the STF probe has uncovered what investigators describe as plans to abduct the sons of ministers and demand large ransoms through an organised extortion racket. Officials have not yet publicly disclosed the identities of the intended targets, citing the ongoing investigation.

The module was also allegedly exploring ways to incite violence at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Members were reportedly in the process of procuring police uniforms to infiltrate influential circles and extract sensitive information, officials said.

A Shift in ISI Tactics, Officials Say

An Intelligence Bureau official described the operational model as a deliberate strategic shift away from traditional bomb-and-blast modules. Earlier ISI-backed networks, according to investigators, were focused narrowly on procuring materials, assembling explosives, and striking high-value locations. The newer modules — reportedly created by influencer-turned-ISI operative Shehzad Bhatti — have moved away from that model entirely.

'These modules are more into running disinformation campaigns, espionage, setting honey traps, abductions, extortion and targeted strikes,' the official said. Officials noted that this approach carries lower operational risk for the ISI: 'A bomb blast requires expertise, logistical support, among others. Such an activity also tends to leave a major trail, which makes it relatively easier for the agencies to track. This is something that the ISI wants to avoid at any cost,' an official explained.

Key Arrests: Arpita Sarkar and Hamim Mondal

The West Bengal STF has arrested alleged influencer Arpita Sarkar, a 22-year-old woman from Jharkhand, in connection with the module. Investigators are examining her alleged links with the module's key accused, Hamim Mondal of West Bengal. Her digital records are under scrutiny, and authorities are probing the purpose behind her frequent travel between Jharkhand and Kolkata.

This comes amid a broader pattern identified by agencies following Operation Sindoor, during which noted influencer Jyoti Malhotra was arrested. She was accused of creating pro-Pakistan content and allegedly attempting to gather and relay sensitive information to Pakistani officials through its embassy in New Delhi.

What Comes Next

The STF investigation is ongoing, with officials indicating that the full network — including handlers, recruiters, and intended targets — has not yet been fully mapped. The Intelligence Bureau has flagged the evolving module structure as 'highly disturbing,' and central agencies are reportedly coordinating with state counterparts to assess exposure in other states as well.