New Delhi: In a major breakthrough ahead of Diwali, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Delhi Police Special Cell have jointly foiled a major terror conspiracy and arrested two suspected terrorists allegedly linked to the banned organization ISIS. The arrests are believed to have averted a potential suicide attack in the crowded areas of the national capital.
Coordinated Operation Thwarts Attack
According to officials, the two suspects—identified as Adnan Khan and Mohammad Adnan—were planning to carry out bomb blasts in Delhi’s high-footfall zones during the festive season. The arrests followed weeks of coordinated surveillance between the two state agencies. Police sources said both men were radicalized through online ISIS propaganda videos and were actively preparing for a large-scale strike.
Arrests from Bhopal and Delhi
Inspector General (Law and Order) L.R. Kumar confirmed the arrests during a press conference on Monday. He stated that Adnan Khan was apprehended on October 18 from Bhopal, while Mohammad Adnan was arrested two days earlier on October 16 from Sadiq Nagar, Delhi. Both suspects were reportedly in touch with handlers based abroad and were receiving instructions through encrypted social media channels.
A History of Radical Activity
Investigations revealed that Adnan Khan had a prior criminal record. In 2024, he was arrested for allegedly issuing threats to the judge who had ordered the Gyanvapi Mosque survey in Varanasi. After being released on bail on September 25, Khan is believed to have rejoined extremist circles and resumed radical activities. His family hails from Etah district, Uttar Pradesh, though they relocated to Delhi in 2023.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are now interrogating both suspects to trace their wider network and identify other possible associates involved in the terror module. Intelligence inputs suggest that the duo may have had logistical support within Delhi and adjoining states.
Police officials commended the swift coordination between the Uttar Pradesh ATS and Delhi Police, which helped prevent what could have been a catastrophic terror incident in the capital. Further investigations are underway.
