Around 700 Arrested in India Over Shahzad Bhatti Network; Agencies Warn of Renewed Online Recruitment By Islam Global News Editorial Desk Published: 6 November 2026 | 1:53 PM Update Location: India / Pakistan Category: India | National Security Indian security agencies have arrested around 700 people suspected of links to the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti network, according to intelligence officials cited in reports published on November 6. Authorities are now warning that the alleged network is attempting to rebuild its recruitment operations by using social media, financial incentives and religious messaging to influence young people in India. Indian media reported the latest developments, including an IANS report published by Telangana Today. The allegations concern an alleged cross-border network led by Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti. How the alleged recruitment operation works According to intelligence officials, the network initially relied heavily on financial incentives and promises of a better lifestyle to attract young recruits. Investigators allege that young people were approached through Instagram accounts and Reels before conversations moved to private messaging platforms. Some recruits were allegedly offered money to carry out assignments, transport suspicious materials, conduct surveillance, or participate in targeted attacks. Officials now claim the recruitment strategy places greater emphasis on religious identity and emotional appeals. The alleged approach combines religious messaging with financial incentives and promises of opportunities abroad. Around 700 arrests reported Indian security agencies have reportedly arrested approximately 700 individuals suspected of links to the network. The crackdown is said to have disrupted alleged plans involving surveillance of sensitive locations, targeted killings, drug trafficking and counterfeit currency operations. India Today also reported that more than 700 additional individuals were detained for questioning, counselled and subsequently released. These figures refer to different groups and should not be combined into a single arrest total. The allegations against individuals vary, and an arrest or detention does not establish guilt. Social media accounts create a continuing challenge Intelligence officials have reportedly identified Instagram as one of the platforms used to approach potential recruits. According to an official quoted in the November 6 report, more than 100 requests were sent to Meta to remove Instagram profiles allegedly associated with the network. Officials claimed that more than 50 new profiles appeared as accounts were removed. Encrypted messaging applications, including Telegram, were also reportedly used for communication and coordination. The continued appearance of new accounts challenges security agencies trying to prevent online recruitment. Religious identity allegedly used as a recruitment tool One of the most sensitive aspects of the latest intelligence warning concerns the alleged use of religious appeals. Officials claim that the network is attempting to exploit religious sentiments to persuade young people to participate in illegal activities. It is important to distinguish between legitimate religious expression and the alleged manipulation of religious identity for recruitment into violence. No religion or wider religious community should be held responsible for the alleged activities of an extremist network. Government action against the network On September 16, 2026, India's Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the Shahzad Bhatti Network had been declared a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The government statement accused the organisation of involvement in arms, explosives and narcotics smuggling, recruitment of vulnerable young people and activities threatening India's security and communal harmony. Security agencies have continued investigations into suspected links, recruitment channels and alleged operations across several states. Why this development matters The case highlights the growing security challenge posed by online recruitment and cross-border criminal networks. Young people facing financial difficulties or seeking opportunities abroad may become vulnerable to fraudulent offers, manipulation and criminal exploitation. Security experts and authorities have emphasised the importance of online awareness, responsible social media use and reporting suspicious recruitment attempts. The latest warning also raises questions about how digital platforms can respond more effectively to accounts allegedly being used for recruitment and threats. Islam Global News Editorial Desk This report presents allegations and intelligence claims attributed to Indian authorities and media reports. Arrests and allegations do not establish the guilt of every person concerned. The claims have not been independently verified by Islam Global News.