ATS questions 57 in Maharashtra over alleged gangster network links

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.

Digital evidence recovered during the searches is being analysed to establish the extent of the network and identify additional persons who may have been in contact with the gangsters.

The ATS has not disclosed the number of persons detained. Further investigation into interstate or international links of the suspected network is underway.

The name of Bhatti, a Lahore-based gangster, has surfaced in investigations related to terror recruitment, radicalisation, and espionage activities in India over the past several months. More than a dozen cases have been registered against him by various agencies, officials said.

According to investigating agencies, Bhatti has been operating out of Dubai while travelling between Pakistan, the UAE, and other countries in the Middle East. Indian agencies are now working to secure his extradition.

(Bureau copy with PTI inputs)