The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) launched a massive search operation at several locations in Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar districts and detained several suspects for investigation following a tip-off about terror-related activities, officials said on Sunday (15 Feb 2026).
The ATS combed more than 20 places in two districts in raids launched around midnight and nabbed more than a dozen suspects, they said.
Acting on specific information about youth radicalization in the state, the ATS along with district police teams launched operations in Pusad and Umarkhed towns of Yavatmal, a senior police official said.
Searches are underway at 14 locations, including homes, offices and other places associated with the suspects, the official said, adding that teams have seized objectionable documents, mobile phones, electronic devices and examined CCTV footage.
The ATS recovered incriminating documents during the searches, he said. The official said the suspects were being questioned and no arrests had been made.
According to him, a large number of police officers and personnel were deployed in this operation.
Similar raids were carried out at seven locations in Ahilyanagar district in central Maharashtra and police recovered incriminating materials from the suspects, the official said.
According to him, the suspects are being interrogated while the operation continues.
Published – 15 Feb 2026 13:34 IST