UP ATS foils major terror plot to target railways in Lucknow, Pakistan link suspected

Major terror plot foiled: A major terror plot aimed at disrupting railway operations in Uttar Pradesh has been foiled by the state’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), with investigators uncovering suspected links to Pakistan-based handlers and foreign funding.

According to officials, four persons have been arrested in connection with the case. Among them is a key accused Saqib alias Devil from Meerut, who is believed to have been in direct contact with an operative linked to Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the group was planning to target a railway signal box near Lucknow railway station. The alleged plan involved setting the signal system on fire, which could have disrupted train movement and possibly led to a major accident, posing a serious threat to public safety.

Officials further revealed that funds were being routed from abroad to support the activities of the group. Saqib is suspected to have received the money and distributed it among other members involved in the plot. Investigators also found that the handler shared Google location-based screen recordings with the accused, who then sent back photos and videos of the identified targets.

The group had reportedly conducted surveillance in multiple cities, including Lucknow, Ghaziabad, and Meerut. They collected visuals of important locations, including vehicle showrooms, indicating detailed planning and preparation.

Apart from targeting railway infrastructure, the accused were also allegedly planning acts of arson. Investigators believe they intended to attack trucks carrying gas cylinders and set fire to vehicle showrooms in an attempt to cause economic damage and create panic among the public.

Authorities say the accused were radicalised through online content and propaganda. The handler is believed to have used references to extremist figures and ideologies to influence and motivate the group.

Two of the arrested individuals, identified as Lokesh alias Papla and Vikas alias Raunak, reportedly came into contact with Saqib through social media posts in which he displayed weapons. Another accused, Arbaab, was also in touch with the handler, officials said.

All four accused are expected to be taken into custody for further questioning. The ATS has sought a one-week remand, and the matter is scheduled to be heard in a special NIA-ATS court.