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18 August 2026

Counter-terror operation against ISI-backed network

This event serves as a significant case study for internal security challenges, illustrating the nexus between cross-border terrorism, social media radicalization, and the operational coordination between central and state agencies.

1 min read Day 4 of 5 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Security agencies dismantled the Pakistan-based 'Shahzad Bhatti Network' in a nationwide operation across 14 States/UTs.
  • Over 200 operatives arrested and 253 individuals detained; more than 80 FIRs registered.
  • Network linked to grenade attacks, IED blasts, petrol bombs, and targeted killings.
  • Modus operandi: Recruitment via social media (Instagram/Facebook) by offering small monetary incentives (₹5,000-₹10,000) to vulnerable youth.
  • Tasks included reconnaissance of police/defence installations, installing CCTV cameras for live-streaming to handlers, and acting as couriers for narcotics and arms.
  • Funding originated from central Asian countries; small transaction amounts often bypassed banking surveillance.
  • Legal framework: Cases registered under UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Arms Act, NDPS Act, and Explosive Substances Act.
  • The network utilized online manuals for IED/petrol bomb assembly and exploited religious sentiments alongside monetary lures.
  • The operation involved real-time intelligence sharing between Central agencies and State police forces.

Part of a longer story

This is day 4 of 5 in West Bengal terror module investigations, which has been running since 1 August 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. The rise of 'terror-gangster' syndicates operating through social media platforms poses a significant challenge to internal security. Discuss the challenges in tracking such decentralized, technology-driven recruitment networks. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Examine the nexus between organized crime and cross-border terrorism in India. How does the exploitation of social media and digital financial channels for radicalization and logistics complicate the mandate of security agencies? 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following acts were cited by the Ministry of Home Affairs in the registration of FIRs against the Shahzad Bhatti Network?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-18/counter-terror-operation-against-isi-backed-network