Delhi Special Cell Probes Cryptocurrency Channels Used by ISI Network to Finance Operations

The Delhi Police Special Cell has uncovered what investigators describe as a Pakistan-backed underworld-terror network with alleged links to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim’s criminal syndicate. Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, while authorities continue to investigate the network’s funding channels, recruitment efforts, and operational plans. Officials claim the group was attempting to establish a wider footprint across several Indian states and had allegedly planned attacks on security establishments and crowded public locations.

According to investigators, the operation came to light following a human intelligence tip-off that led police to uncover a network involving foreign handlers, local operatives, and criminal associates. The probe revealed that the alleged module had been active for nearly two months before the arrests and was reportedly focused on recruiting additional members within India. Police sources said Mumbra in Maharashtra functioned as an important contact and recruitment hub linked to underworld networks associated with Dawood Ibrahim.

A key focus of the investigation is the alleged use of cryptocurrency channels to move funds and avoid detection. Sources indicated that suspected crypto-linked networks operating in parts of Delhi, including Karol Bagh, are being scrutinized for possible connections to the case. Investigators are also examining the role of a Nepali national, Lama Ang Kami, who allegedly helped establish links between foreign handlers and local operatives. Authorities claim he developed connections with Karachi-based handler Munna Jhingada while both were imprisoned in a Bangkok jail, laying the foundation for subsequent coordination.

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The investigation expanded with the arrest of Uttar Pradesh resident Vijay alias Shooter in Pune on May 14, followed by the detention of his associate Nitish from Jharkhand on May 17. Police allege Vijay maintained regular contact with members of networks operating from Pakistan and Dubai and was tasked with recruiting young men for activities across Delhi-NCR and several northern Indian states. Further interrogations led to the arrests of Mumbai-based suspects Taoqeer and Arbaaz, who investigators claim were linked to overseas handlers through a local operative who remains absconding.

The probe later extended to Punjab, where investigators uncovered another alleged module. Acting on intelligence inputs, Special Cell teams intercepted three suspects on Delhi’s Mehrauli-Badarpur Road in the early hours of May 30 and reportedly recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying additional recruits, funding mechanisms, and operational links connected to the network. The Delhi Police Special Cell has not ruled out further arrests as the inquiry continues.

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