The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has interrogated 57 persons across the State as part of an operation against networks allegedly linked to Pakistan-based gangsters, including the Shahzad Bhatti gang and the Dogra gang. Officials said the focus is on identifying sleeper cells, local operatives, and support systems that may facilitate arms smuggling or conspiracies.
The operation began at around 8 a.m. on Wednesday (May 13, 2026). ATS teams conducted searches in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nalasopara, Mira Road, Akola, Nanded, Nashik, and Jalgaon.
Officials said the ATS plans to question persons who are allegedly in contact with these gangsters through social media platforms or are considered followers or sympathisers of the networks. Intelligence inputs received over a period of time indicated that gangsters operating from across the border were using social media to recruit youths from Maharashtra, officials added.
According to officials, these groups targeted local youths with promises of financial gains and a lifestyle of comfort. The aim was to expand their influence across the State.
ATS teams seized laptops, mobile phones, pen drives, and other electronic devices from locations linked to suspects. Investigators are examining bank accounts and financial transactions to determine if funds were routed from Pakistan or other foreign locations through hawala channels.
