In a dramatic breakthrough just days before Diwali, the Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested two suspected ISIS operatives, both allegedly plotting a major terror strike in the national capital. According to officials, the arrests have averted a potentially devastating attack planned at a South Delhi mall and a public park during the festive rush.
Both suspects, identified as Adnan from Sadiq Nagar (Delhi) and Adnan from Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), were in the final stages of preparing an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), police said on Friday.
Vow of Allegiance and Explosive Plans
Senior police officials revealed that investigators recovered incriminating materials, including a chilling video where the duo could be seen taking a “vow of allegiance” to ISIS. They had also stored photos and maps of potential targets in Delhi — all high-footfall public areas frequented during Diwali.
A digital watch modified to serve as a timer for an IED, along with photos of locations where they planned to procure bomb-making materials, was seized from their possession, said Additional Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Pramod Kushwaha during a press briefing.
“The arrests have averted a possible terror attack in Delhi. Both operatives were radicalized and operationally active,” Kushwaha confirmed.
The Operation and Timeline
The Special Cell first nabbed the Delhi-based Adnan from Sadiq Nagar on October 16, following leads about suspicious online activity linked to extremist networks. His interrogation led to the arrest of the second suspect from Bhopal, who was also found to have prior links to radical groups.
Sources said the Bhopal-based Adnan had previously come under scrutiny after allegedly threatening an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) official on social media over the Gyanvapi mosque survey. He had earlier been detained by Uttar Pradesh Police in connection with that incident.
Terror Links Under Probe
According to preliminary investigations, the accused were actively associated with ISIS and were “motivated to carry out a high-casualty strike” in Delhi. The duo had already conducted reconnaissance of several crowded areas, including the targeted mall and park.
Authorities believe the pair was part of a larger network, and a nationwide probe is now underway to trace potential handlers and digital footprints of the plot.
“Electronic devices and incriminating materials have been seized from their possession. Interrogation is ongoing to uncover their local and international links,” said a senior officer.
Capital on High Alert
Following the arrests, security agencies have stepped up vigilance across Delhi, especially in commercial hubs, malls, religious places, and markets expected to witness heavy footfall during Diwali. Anti-terror units have been instructed to maintain maximum alert levels and continue monitoring potential sleeper cells.
Officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Discussion about this post