In connection with the ongoing investigation into the Delhi blast case, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) conducted searches at two locations, one in Pune’s Kondhwa area and another in Mumbra, Thane. The searches are linked to the case involving Zubair Hangargekar, who was arrested last month for his alleged association with the banned terror outfit Al-Qaeda.
According to ATS officials, the raids targeted the residences of two individuals suspected to have been in contact with Hangargekar. Their identities have not been disclosed. During the operation, investigators seized several digital devices and documents, which have been sent for forensic analysis.
An ATS officer stated that, so far, there is no confirmed connection between Hangargekar and the Delhi blast case. However, investigators are examining possible overlaps between networks under investigation in Maharashtra and J&K. Officials described the exercise as part of routine coordination between central and state agencies involved in counterterrorism efforts.
Background of the Pune arrest
Zubair Hangargekar, a 35-year-old software engineer from Pune’s Kondhwa area, was arrested by the Maharashtra ATS on October 27 following weeks of surveillance. Authorities allege that he was in possession of digital material promoting extremist ideologies, intended to radicalise youth.
He has been booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and was remanded in police custody until November 4 by a special court. Investigators recovered multiple electronic devices from his residence, which are currently being analysed to determine any communication with extremist groups or foreign handlers. Neighbours described Hangargekar as a “quiet tech professional” with no known history of violence. The ATS is now probing how he accessed radical material online and whether he was acting alone or as part of a broader extremist network.
