Delhi Police has dismantled what investigators describe as a cross-border terror module allegedly linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence and extremist outfits operating from Bangladesh, arresting eight suspects in coordinated raids across Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Officers say the group was preparing to execute a large-scale attack under instructions from handlers based outside the country.Senior police officials stated that the arrests followed weeks of surveillance, technical monitoring and intelligence inputs shared between central and state agencies. Raids were carried out simultaneously in multiple districts to prevent suspects from evading capture or destroying evidence. Electronic devices, documents and other materials were seized and are being examined by forensic teams.
According to investigators, the module functioned through encrypted messaging platforms and layered communication channels designed to conceal the identities of foreign handlers. Police allege that funds were routed through informal networks and small-value digital transfers to avoid detection. Preliminary findings suggest that some of the accused had travelled between states to coordinate logistics and reconnaissance.
Officials familiar with the probe said the alleged conspiracy involved identifying crowded public locations as potential targets. While specific sites were not disclosed, authorities indicated that security has been heightened in sensitive areas as a precautionary measure. “We acted before any attack could be carried out,” a senior officer said, adding that the investigation is ongoing and further arrests cannot be ruled out.
The Inter-Services Intelligence, Pakistan’s primary intelligence agency, has long been accused by New Delhi of backing militant activities directed at destabilising the region, a charge Islamabad denies. Bangladesh has also faced scrutiny in the past over the activities of fringe extremist networks operating within its borders, though Dhaka has undertaken counterterrorism operations over the past decade to curb radical outfits and dismantle training camps.
Security analysts note that cross-border modules increasingly rely on decentralised structures. Rather than large, tightly knit cells, groups often recruit individuals online, radicalise them remotely and provide instructions through digital channels. This model reduces the risk of exposure while allowing handlers to maintain operational influence from abroad. Investigators in the present case believe the suspects were in contact with operatives outside the country who provided strategic guidance and ideological motivation.
Court records show that the eight accused have been produced before a magistrate and remanded to police custody for further interrogation. Lawyers representing some of the detainees have indicated that they will contest the allegations, arguing that the arrests were based on circumstantial evidence. Authorities have emphasised that the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty and that the case will proceed through established legal channels.
Officials from Tamil Nadu and West Bengal police forces confirmed their cooperation with the capital’s Special Cell, underscoring what they described as seamless coordination among agencies. Intelligence-sharing mechanisms between states have been strengthened over the past few years, particularly after several cases revealed networks spanning multiple jurisdictions. Analysts view such coordination as critical in thwarting plots that exploit regional boundaries.
The investigation is also examining possible recruitment methods. Counterterrorism experts say online propaganda, closed discussion forums and targeted messaging remain potent tools for extremist groups seeking to attract disaffected youth. Security agencies have intensified monitoring of digital ecosystems while also engaging community leaders to counter radical narratives.
Authorities declined to disclose the precise nature of the alleged extremist organisations based in Bangladesh that were linked to the suspects, citing operational sensitivity. However, officials indicated that inputs were cross-verified with central intelligence agencies before the arrests were made. Diplomatic channels, they said, remain open should cooperation be required at an international level.
Data compiled by security agencies over the past few years indicate that while large-scale attacks have declined, attempts to revive sleeper cells and create new modules continue. Investigators believe foreign handlers are adapting tactics in response to heightened surveillance, shifting towards smaller, compartmentalised groups that can operate with minimal physical interaction.
Political reactions were measured. Government representatives reiterated their commitment to national security and praised inter-agency collaboration, while opposition leaders called for transparency and adherence to due process. Civil liberties advocates urged authorities to ensure that investigations are evidence-based and free from profiling.