Lucknow woman doctor held in ‘white collar’ terror network; AK-47 seized

Lucknow: In a major security breakthrough, police have arrested a Lucknow-based woman doctor, identified as Dr Shaheen, for her alleged role in a terror module spanning Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Authorities said an AK-47 rifle was recovered from her car during the operation.

The arrest, made in coordination with multiple state police units and central agencies, uncovered what investigators have described as a “white collar network” — a sophisticated operation allegedly linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, two Pakistan-based terrorist organisations.

Officials said the probe also led to the seizure of 2,900 kg of explosives, suggesting large-scale logistical planning behind the network’s operations. Alongside Dr Shaheen, seven other suspects were taken into custody, including Dr Muzammil Ganaie, a Kashmiri doctor arrested in Faridabad.

Sources confirmed that Dr Shaheen has been flown to Srinagar for detailed custodial interrogation. The joint operation was carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana Police, in close coordination with central intelligence agencies.

Authorities have not revealed the specific timeline of the arrests, citing ongoing investigations. However, officials described the network as “highly organised”, involving educated individuals who allegedly used their professional status to conceal terror-linked activities.

The coordinated crackdown marks one of the most significant counterterrorism actions in recent months, targeting what investigators believe is a multi-state terror module operating under a civilian façade.

According to security officials, the group maintained financial and logistical channels that connected medical professionals, traders, and field operatives. Intelligence inputs suggested that the network facilitated movement of arms and explosives between northern and central India.

During the operation, authorities recovered an AK-47 assault rifle, ammunition, and nearly 2,900 kilograms of explosives. The nature of the explosives and their intended use are now being examined by forensic teams.

The alleged involvement of medical professionals, including Dr Shaheen and Dr Muzammil Ganaie, has raised alarm among security agencies, highlighting an evolving threat from individuals with access to professional networks and resources.

Officials believe the suspects were in contact with handlers associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, both proscribed organisations responsible for previous terror attacks in India.

The joint investigation remains ongoing, with police sources indicating that more arrests are likely as agencies trace financial transactions and communication links across states.

Security officials have termed the case a “wake-up call” to the growing sophistication of terror networks seeking to blend into professional sectors while maintaining operational ties to militant outfits.