Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh anti-terrorism squad (ATS) has intensified its probe into a suspected terror module after suspending a sub-inspector in Bijnor for allegedly giving a clean chit to a key accused and filing a misleading report.The accused had earlier featured in a viral video holding an AK-47 and grenades, which were reportedly dismissed as “toys” during the initial investigation.According to officials, sub-inspector Satyendra Malik has been suspended for filing a final report terming the assault rifle seen in the video as a toy.Circle officer, Najibabad, Nitesh Pratap Singh, has been shifted from his post for supervisory lapses in the case.The ATS has secured a five-day remand of the accused till April 9 and is interrogating them.Initial findings suggest the group was planning acts of sabotage, including tampering with railway signaling systems and targeting vehicles carrying gas cylinders to trigger large-scale explosions.ADG (law and order) Amitabh Yash said the module was led by Meerut-based Shakib alias ‘Devil’.He allegedly recruited Arbaab from his native village, while another operative, Aqib—currently believed to be hiding in Dubai—facilitated contacts with handlers linked to Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI.The group allegedly carried out arson to create panic and shared videos of these acts with handlers, receiving payments through QR codes.Seven mobile phones recovered from the accused contain incriminating material, including videos of arson attacks and visuals of the accused posing with assault rifles.Officials said the accused were planning a major attack in Lucknow when they were arrested.
