New Delhi, July 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified efforts to trace alleged ISI-linked terror recruiter Shahzad Bhatti, with intelligence inputs suggesting that he may have been moved out of Pakistan and could currently be in Brazil, officials said.
Bhatti, a social media influencer who allegedly operated from Dubai, was reportedly shifted to Pakistan to coordinate with Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) handlers for building a recruitment network aimed at radicalising Indian youth and involving them in terror-related activities.
Officials said multiple security agencies have dismantled modules allegedly linked to Bhatti, increasing pressure on him and prompting efforts to locate his current whereabouts.
An Intelligence Bureau official said verification of Bhatti’s location is underway. Once his presence is confirmed, the NIA is expected to coordinate with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to seek an Interpol Red Corner Notice (RCN) against him.
The investigation received legal backing after a Special Court in Mohali issued a non-bailable warrant against Bhatti. The warrant will remain active until his arrest, allowing agencies to continue pursuing legal action against him.
Officials said that if Bhatti’s presence in Brazil is established, India can explore extradition proceedings under the bilateral extradition framework between the two countries. India and Brazil signed an extradition treaty in 2008, which came into force in 2012.
Security officials said Bhatti’s alleged network is significant because of the number of recruitment modules suspected to have been created across India. While some of the modules uncovered so far involved limited numbers of individuals, agencies believe the wider network requires urgent action.
Officials said the arrest of Bhatti would help security agencies dismantle the remaining recruitment channels and prevent further attempts to use Indian youth for terror activities, including attacks and surveillance operations.
The case remains under investigation, with agencies continuing efforts to establish his location and bring him back to India through legal channels.
FOLLOW NOW
