NIA arrests Karnataka youth over alleged links with Pakistan-based terror operatives

October 3, 2026

Bidar, Karnataka: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a 24-year-old youth from Karnataka’s Bidar district for allegedly maintaining links with a Pakistan-based terrorist and other suspected subversive elements, police said on Saturday.

The arrested person has been identified as Vishal Kumar Metre, a resident of Yanakura village in Bhalki taluk of Bidar district.

NIA arrests 24-year-old Bidar youth

According to police, the NIA arrested Vishal on October 1 in coordination with the local police. Investigators allege that he had been in contact with Pakistan-based operative Shahazad Bhatti and two others identified as Rana Hunain and Nomi Khan.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Vishal allegedly communicated with the three through his mobile phone and WhatsApp.

Central investigating agencies had reportedly been monitoring his activities since December 2025.

Bidar Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti said court proceedings were underway and that more information would be shared after the proceedings were completed.

Accused booked under UAPA

Police said Vishal is a graduate and had allegedly remained in contact with the Pakistan-based operatives for some time.

Local police also joined the investigation after he reportedly went missing, while his movements were tracked as part of the probe.

The accused has been booked under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Chincholi Police have registered a case in connection with the alleged terror links and are assisting the NIA investigation.

Agencies examine communications and wider links

Investigating agencies are examining the nature of the alleged contacts, communications exchanged and whether Vishal had any role beyond maintaining contact with the suspected operatives.

Police sources said the arrest was the third in Karnataka in the past 15 days in cases involving alleged links with terror elements.

The investigation is continuing, and further details are expected to emerge following court proceedings and questioning of the accused.

Earlier arrests in Kalaburagi

The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny by central and state agencies into suspected links between individuals in Karnataka and Pakistan-based terror networks.

Recently, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Kalaburagi Police arrested two Uttar Pradesh natives in Karnataka’s Kalaburagi in August 2026 over alleged links with Pakistan-based entities and ISIS.

The arrested persons were identified as Mohammed Sameer, 23, and Salman.

According to investigators, the duo allegedly maintained regular contact through WhatsApp and Facebook with individuals linked to Pakistan and the Islamic State (ISIS). Investigators also recovered digital material, including maps and inflammatory videos, from their devices.