New Delhi: Shahzad Bhatti is a Pakistani social media influencer and businessman who has built a sizeable following under the name ‘333’. Known for speaking about religion, nationalism, social media controversies and India-Pakistan relations, Bhatti has now emerged as a key name in an investigation by Indian security agencies.

But who exactly is Shahzad Bhatti, and why is his name suddenly making headlines in India?

Who is Shahzad Bhatti?

Bhatti is from Pakistan's Punjab province and is believed to be around 45. He has described himself as a businessman with interests including scrap trading, agriculture and dairy.

His public profile, however, grew mainly through social media. As platforms such as TikTok became increasingly popular in Pakistan, Bhatti developed a following through videos and posts on religious and political controversies.

He became particularly known for his ‘333’ identity. Bhatti has said that 333 is not the name of a gang or organised group, but simply his personal identifier.

Over time, he also cultivated an image as a self-styled defender of religious causes and frequently commented on controversies involving Pakistani influencers.

What is his connection to Lawrence Bishnoi?

One of the reasons Bhatti has attracted attention in India is his claimed friendship with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.

Bhatti has publicly spoken about his relationship with Bishnoi, saying it began after he sought help over alleged anti-Islamic content circulating online.

Indian investigators have also linked Bhatti to people allegedly associated with the Bishnoi network. His name has consequently appeared in investigations into alleged cross-border criminal activities.

Why is Bhatti in the news now?

Bhatti has come under renewed scrutiny following the Delhi Police Special Cell's arrest of nine people across several states.

Investigators allege that those arrested were linked to Bhatti's network and were planning attacks on targets including a historic temple in Delhi, an eatery on the Delhi-Sonipat highway and a military installation in Haryana.

Indian agencies have also alleged that Bhatti has links with Pakistan's ISI and has attempted to build an online network by reaching out to young people.

Bhatti has rejected the portrayal of himself as a gangster or mafia figure. The allegations against him and his alleged network remain under investigation.