Delhi Police Bust LeT-Linked Module; 8 Held

Delhi Police have arrested eight individuals in connection with an alleged terror module linked to the banned outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Officials said the network was being operated from Bangladesh and was allegedly overseen by Shabir Ahmed Lone.

Police described the operation as a preventive action that helped avert what they termed a possible major incident.

Who Is Shabir Ahmed Lone?

According to investigators, Shabir Ahmed Lone is a resident of Ganderbal in Jammu and Kashmir and has been on the radar of security agencies for several years. Officials claim he is currently based in Bangladesh.

Authorities allege that Lone maintained contact with senior LeT leaders, including Hafiz Saeed and Zaki-ur-Rahman Lakhvi.

Police sources said Lone had earlier been arrested in 2007 with weapons and was allegedly involved in planning an attack at the time. After spending years in jail, he was released on bail in 2019. Officials claim he later relocated to Bangladesh and re-established contact with LeT handlers.

How the Module Allegedly Operated

The arrests were made in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. According to police, the suspects were allegedly working in the garment sector while using forged identity documents.

Investigators claim the network operated through encrypted messaging platforms and intermediaries. Lone allegedly coordinated activities from Bangladesh and was tasked with recruitment, arranging fake identity papers, and setting up logistical support.

Police said anti-India posters found in Delhi and Kolkata were allegedly linked to the network. Authorities are examining digital evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.

Alleged Attack Plans

Officials are probing whether the group was planning attacks on crowded locations in Delhi, including religious sites. Earlier alerts had flagged a possible improvised explosive device (IED) threat near the Red Fort and other high-footfall areas.

Investigators are also examining whether there is any connection between the arrested suspects and a car blast that took place near the Red Fort in November 2025. No direct link has been officially confirmed so far.

Investigation Continues

A senior Special Cell officer said preliminary findings suggest the module was operating under instructions from handlers outside India. Further forensic and intelligence analysis is underway.

Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing and more details may emerge as questioning continues.