Shahzad Bhatti Recruited Ghaziabad Man to Ferry Explosives-Laden Car Before Punjab Blast: NIA

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has alleged that Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti recruited a man from Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh to transport an explosives-laden car before a blast in Punjab, highlighting the suspected use of local operatives by cross-border handlers to execute terror-related activities. According to the investigation, Bhatti allegedly used his network to identify and recruit individuals in India who could carry out specific assignments. The Ghaziabad-based man was reportedly tasked with ferrying the vehicle containing explosives ahead of the blast.

The case has drawn attention to the suspected links between foreign-based handlers and local associates involved in arranging transportation and other logistical support for planned attacks. Investigators are examining the alleged recruitment process, the movement of the explosives-laden vehicle and the communication channels used to coordinate the operation. The agency is also looking into whether other individuals were involved in facilitating the attack.

The development comes amid a wider investigation into alleged terror recruitment networks linked to Bhatti and his associates. Security agencies have been examining how individuals in India were allegedly approached and assigned responsibilities through contacts operating from Pakistan. The NIA is expected to focus on establishing the complete chain of events, including the identities of those who arranged the vehicle, supplied the explosives and coordinated its movement.

The investigation also highlights concerns over the use of local recruits for logistical operations, which can allow handlers operating from abroad to maintain distance from the actual execution of an attack. Further details about the Ghaziabad man's alleged role and the wider network are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.