Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested a Lashkar-e-Taiba operative accused of leading a terror module linked to the recent Metro poster case in the national capital.
New Delhi: Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested Shabir Ahmed Lone, a suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative, in connection with the ongoing Metro poster case in Delhi. Officials have identified him as a key handler of a recently busted module allegedly involved in radicalisation and recruitment activities.
According to sources, Lone is believed to have been in direct contact with senior LeT commanders Hafeez Saeed and Zaki-ur-Rahman Lakhvi, who are widely regarded as masterminds of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. He is suspected of functioning as a sleeper cell operative with cross-border connections.
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Background of the metro poster case
The investigation intensified after eight individuals were arrested in February in connection with the same module. These individuals were allegedly involved in pasting pro-terror posters at multiple metro stations across Delhi, including Janpath Metro Station, prompting a coordinated probe by law enforcement agencies.
Previous record and alleged movements
Officials said Lone had previously served time in jail for terrorism-related offences and was released on bail in 2019. He is suspected to have later fled to Bangladesh, from where he allegedly continued coordinating activities with associates across borders.
Investigators believe Lone played a central role in recruiting individuals, including illegal immigrants, and influencing them ideologically. He is also accused of facilitating fake identity documents and arranging logistical support for operatives linked to the module.
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Role of the Delhi police special cell probe
The arrest is considered a significant development in the counter-terror investigation led by the Delhi Police Special Cell. The case came under scrutiny after posters carrying pro-terror and anti-India messages were found at metro stations, triggering involvement from multiple agencies, including the CISF.
Following the initial complaint, authorities carried out surveillance and coordinated raids across several states, leading to the arrest of eight suspects. These individuals were allegedly involved in pasting posters, conducting reconnaissance of sensitive locations, and sharing visual evidence with handlers.
Ongoing investigation and cross-border links
Investigators are examining Lone’s alleged coordination with operatives outside India and his communication with senior LeT figures. These links are being assessed to determine the extent of cross-border involvement and the organisational structure of the module.
Officials stated that Lone’s responsibilities reportedly extended to recruitment, ideological indoctrination, and logistical coordination, including arranging accommodation used as hideouts. Authorities are also probing whether the group was planning attacks on high-footfall areas or sensitive installations.
The case remains under active investigation, and further details are expected as interrogation of the arrested suspects continues.
Published: 30 Mar 2026, 12:26 pm IST
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