Terror Plot Foiled in Lucknow: Four ISI-Linked Suspects Arrested by UP ATS

During the operation, officials recovered a chemical-filled can, seven mobile phones, 24 pamphlets, and Aadhaar cards from the accused. Crucially, several important digital evidences were obtained from the seized mobile phones. According to the ATS, the suspects were acting under instructions from handlers based in Pakistan and were planning to orchestrate arson and spread panic across India.

Investigations revealed that all four suspects were connected to foreign numbers through social media platforms. Their targets included prominent institutions, railway stations, and trains in Lucknow and across the country, where they intended to carry out explosions.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Saqib alias Devil,

Vikas Gehlawat alias Raunak, Lokesh alias Babu, alias Papla Pandit, and Arbab. The gang’s main kingpin, Saqib alias Devil, is a resident of Agwanpur village in Meerut district. He worked as a barber and reportedly came into contact with Pakistani handlers through social media, which led to his involvement in the conspiracy.

The arrests underscore a significant counter-terror success by the UP ATS, preventing a potentially devastating series of attacks targeting key locations in Lucknow and beyond. The case highlights the growing role of digital platforms in cross-border terror coordination and the continued vigilance required to counter such threats.