Muzaffarpur: The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of the Bihar Police has arrested a man from Muzaffarpur district on allegations of involvement in espionage-related activities and contact with a cross-border criminal network, officials said.
The arrest was made during a raid in Ratanpur village under Muzaffarpur district. The accused has been identified as Mustafa. Officials said the action followed inputs regarding his alleged communication with individuals involved in arms smuggling across the border.
Arrest and Initial Findings
According to ATS officials, Mustafa was taken into custody after a coordinated operation in the village. He is being questioned over alleged links with individuals operating outside India.
Officials said preliminary interrogation suggested possible contact with a Pakistan-based network, including an alleged arms smuggler identified during investigation as Shahzad Bhatti. However, these claims are part of the ongoing probe and have not been independently verified.
Digital Evidence Under Review
The ATS stated that a forensic examination of the accused’s mobile phone has revealed images, videos and location data linked to various sensitive locations.
Officials added that deleted data was also recovered during analysis, which is being examined to verify the nature and intent of the communication and content shared.
Investigators are assessing whether the material retrieved includes details that could pose security concerns.
Allegations of Information Sharing
The ATS has alleged that the accused used social media platforms and encrypted messaging applications to communicate with handlers. Officials said some content reportedly included photographs and coordinates of locations considered sensitive.
Authorities have not disclosed the specific nature of these locations, citing the ongoing investigation.
Cross-Border Network Probe
Officials said the investigation is also focusing on whether the accused was part of a wider network operating through online platforms to target individuals in India.
The role of Shahzad Bhatti and his alleged associates is under examination, with ATS seeking to determine the extent of contact with Indian nationals and possible recruitment patterns.
Ongoing Investigation
The ATS has stated that further verification is underway, including analysis of digital evidence and financial records, to establish whether any organised foreign funding or coordinated activity is involved.
Officials added that additional individuals may come under scrutiny as part of the expanding investigation.
