In a significant counter-terrorism action, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested two people in Bulandshahr over alleged links with a Pakistan-based terror network, officials said on Friday. Uttar Pradesh Additional Director General (Law and Order) Amitabh Yash stated that the arrested individuals were identified as Mohammad Umar and Faizan. According to officials, the two were allegedly operating on directions from an ISI-linked network involving Pakistan-based gangsters.

Yash said that the network associated with Pakistani operatives Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jat was allegedly attempting to establish sleeper cells and promote terrorist activities through social media platforms. The ATS detained the two suspects on June 17, 2026. The ADG further stated that investigators recovered digital evidence, including videos related to posters, from the accused. He alleged that the suspects were instructed to spread fear by putting up posters featuring Abid Jat’s images at different locations and were also assigned to conduct reconnaissance of an Army Cantonment area.

Officials confirmed that legal action has been initiated against the accused under relevant sections, and further investigation is ongoing. The families of the accused denied knowledge of any alleged wrongdoing. Salimuddin, the father of one suspect, said his son had gone to Mussoorie for a short trip and claimed the family only learned about the matter recently. He added that if his son was found guilty, he should face punishment, but if not, he should be released.

The father of Mohammad Umar also said he was unaware of any alleged involvement and stated that his son was taken away for questioning after authorities claimed he had contacts with people in Pakistan. He said he had no information about the alleged poster-related activities. The investigation into the case continues.