Pune: Maharashtra ATS Launches State-Wide Raids Over Links to Pakistani Gangster Bhatti; 57 Under Scanner
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 13th May 2026: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) launched a massive state-wide crackdown on Wednesday morning, targeting individuals suspected of being in contact with a Pakistan-based gangster allegedly involved in radicalizing youth.
According to Maharashtra ATS officials, the operation commenced at 8:00 AM on May 13, 2026. The agency is currently investigating 57 individuals across various locations in the state.
Focus on Social Media Radicalization
The ATS action stems from intelligence suggesting that Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti has been using social media platforms to identify and incite Indian youth toward “anti-national activities.” The raids are aimed at dismantling the network of individuals who have been in active communication with Bhatti.
Intensive Raids in Pune District
While the operation is described as “Pan-Maharashtra,” significant activity was reported in the Pune region. ATS teams conducted intensive searches and inquiries in several pockets of the district, including:
Shirur
Warje
Chakan
Ongoing Investigation
“We are currently verifying the locations and credentials of 57 persons identified in connection with this network,” the ATS officials said. The agency is closely monitoring social media interactions to prevent further attempts at radicalization.
Authorities have not yet confirmed any formal arrests, as the “investigation and inquiries” are still in progress.
