Major Breakthrough in Delhi Terror Investigation
In a significant development in India’s counter-terrorism efforts, the Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Shabir Ahmed Lone in connection with the Delhi Metro poster case. Authorities described the arrest as a major breakthrough in the investigation into a suspected terror module operating in the national capital.
Officials said Lone was allegedly acting as the handler of a group of radicalised individuals who were involved in pasting pro-terror and anti-India posters at several locations, including metro stations in Delhi earlier this year.
The arrest came after weeks of investigation and intelligence gathering by security agencies.
Metro Poster Case Sparked Security Concerns
The investigation began in February when pro-Pakistan and pro-terror posters were discovered at locations around Delhi Metro stations. These posters reportedly glorified slain militant Burhan Wani and contained anti-India slogans, raising serious security concerns among authorities.
Following the discovery, a complaint was filed and the case was transferred to the Delhi Police Special Cell, the unit responsible for handling terrorism-related investigations.
Security agencies launched a large-scale probe to track those responsible for the act and determine whether it was part of a larger conspiracy.
Earlier Arrests Revealed Terror Module
During the investigation, police had already arrested eight suspects, including several Bangladeshi nationals, who were allegedly part of the same terror network. Investigators later discovered that these operatives were working under the guidance of Shabir Ahmed Lone.
According to officials, the group had allegedly entered India illegally and used forged identity documents. Authorities also suspect they conducted reconnaissance of important locations in preparation for possible terror activities.
The arrests raised concerns about sleeper cells and cross-border terror networks operating within India.
Lone’s Background and Links to Terror Leadership
Investigators revealed that Shabir Ahmed Lone had previously served nearly 10 years in jail on terror-related charges before being released on bail in 2019. After his release, he reportedly fled to Bangladesh and continued coordinating activities for the terror outfit from there.
Security agencies claim Lone was in contact with top Lashkar-e-Taiba commanders such as Hafiz Saeed and Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, both linked to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
Authorities believe he played a key role in radicalising recruits and directing the activities of the module uncovered earlier this year.
Arrest Near Delhi Border
Police sources said the accused was apprehended during a carefully planned operation near the Delhi border after intelligence agencies tracked his movement.
Officials described him as a suspected sleeper-cell operative who helped coordinate and guide operatives within India.
Investigators are now questioning Lone to uncover the full network and determine whether additional terror plots were being planned.
Investigation Continues
Following the arrest, security agencies are focusing on identifying other associates linked to the module. Authorities are also investigating possible funding channels, recruitment activities, and cross-border connections.
Officials believe the arrest could help dismantle a larger terror network and prevent potential attacks in crowded public areas.
The Delhi Police and intelligence agencies have reiterated that strict action will continue against individuals involved in terrorism or activities threatening national security.
