The gangster’s name reportedly surfaced during the investigation into the firing incident at the residence of Punjab based YouTuber Roger Sandhu in 2024. Intelligence officials suspect Bhatti has links with criminal and extremist elements operating across multiple countries.
According to reports, Bhatti has also been linked to several incidents in India, including investigations connected to the murder case of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique. Security agencies believe he is currently operating from Dubai and coordinating activities through encrypted communication platforms.
Agencies Monitor Online Radicalisation Network
Intelligence sources claimed that Shahzad Bhatti has been posting religiously provocative content on social media over the past few months. Officials suspect he has been attempting to influence youth from different parts of India.
Investigators reportedly detained nine youths from Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Gujarat for allegedly maintaining contact with him through encrypted apps. Agencies suspect the accused were instructed to target crowded places, restaurants and military establishments in northern India, including areas around Delhi and Haryana.
A viral video allegedly featuring Bhatti claimed his network was active in 16 to 17 countries and included nearly 300 associates. Officials are verifying the authenticity of the video as part of the ongoing probe.
Investigators are also examining possible links between Bhatti and jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Meanwhile, the National Investigation Agency has intensified efforts to trace his network and gather further evidence.
Security agencies have not yet released an official detailed statement on the investigation. Further inquiries are continuing.
