Delhi Police have arrested eight individuals allegedly linked to terror organizations based in Pakistan and Bangladesh, officials announced Sunday, February 22, 2026. One of those arrested is from West Bengal, although the remaining seven are citizens of Bangladesh.
Investigation Details
The arrests follow an incident on February 7, when objectionable posters were placed at various metro stations in Delhi. Metro police identified the individuals involved and their routes, transferring the case to the special cell on February 13. Investigators tracked the suspects to Kolkata, West Bengal, where Umar Farukh and Robiul Islam were apprehended.
According to Additional Commissioner of Police Pramod Singh Kushwaha, Farukh and Islam had previously affixed posters in Delhi. They were allegedly acting under the direction of Shabbir Ahmad Lone. Farukh, from Malda in West Bengal, reportedly traveled to Bangladesh to meet with Lone.
Farukh is accused of recruiting six Bangladesh nationals working in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, to conduct practice runs of posting the posters in cities including Delhi and Kolkata, as directed by Lone.
Connections and Planning
Those arrested were employed in garment factories in both Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Farukh and Islam were residing in an expensive house in Kolkata, which authorities identified as a hide-out. Police determined they planned to bring the workers from Tamil Nadu to Kolkata for involvement in terror activities.
Analysis of the suspects’ phones revealed reconnaissance of various cities and planning for a “major terror activity” in areas with high foot traffic, according to Mr. Kushwaha.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the initial investigation?
The investigation was prompted by the placement of objectionable posters at various metro stations in Delhi on February 7.
Where were the majority of those arrested from?
Seven of the eight individuals arrested are citizens of Bangladesh, and were working in Tamil Nadu. One individual is from West Bengal.
Who is Shabbir Ahmad Lone?
Shabbir Ahmad Lone is a former terror handler now based in Bangladesh who was previously arrested in 2007 for connections with Lashkar-e-Taiba and recommenced terrorist activities after his release from prison in 2019.
As investigations continue, will authorities be able to uncover the full extent of this alleged network and prevent potential attacks?