Authorities Conduct Raids in Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar Districts

On February 14, 2026, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad, known as ATS, carried out a series of coordinated raids. These operations took place at 21 different locations in the districts of Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar. The main goal of these searches was to investigate suspected efforts to radicalize young people and create links with terrorist groups. In Yavatmal district, law enforcement officials searched at 14 locations in the towns of Pusad and Umarkhed. Meanwhile, in Ahilyanagar district, they searched seven locations. During the raids, authorities seized several items, including electronic devices, mobile phones, CCTV equipment, and certain documents considered objectionable. They also found swords, which are sometimes linked to traditional or cultural practices, but their relevance to the investigation is still being assessed. As of February 19, 2026, there has been no official confirmation about arrests made during these operations. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are examining the seized materials to determine if there are any links to extremist networks or activities. Officials have not disclosed the identities of the individuals involved, citing the sensitive nature of the inquiry. The authorities have not confirmed whether any module of radicalization has been organized in the region or if there is contact between suspects and handlers outside the state. They have also not verified reports about specific individuals, such as a grocer from Nagpur, who allegedly used a local soccer club in Pusad as a cover for radicalization activities. The operation was carried out peacefully, following legal procedures. Law enforcement officials emphasized that they are still in the process of analyzing the seized materials and gathering evidence. No information has been provided about detained individuals, the seizure of phones or laptops, or the forensic analysis of data collected. Furthermore, authorities have not confirmed whether CCTV footage is being examined or if funding sources and wider links related to the suspects are being mapped. There is no verified information about the use of recreational platforms to spread extremist ideology, or about any suspects with ties to radical Islamist organizations. Officials have also not confirmed the involvement of individuals from Pusad or allegations of suspects being relocated to other areas, such as Jaffar Nagar. The status of detained individuals remains under surveillance, and questions about their potential release have not been answered. In summary, law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the situation. The raids in Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar are part of broader efforts to prevent extremism. As investigations continue, authorities remain cautious about sharing specifics to protect the integrity of their inquiries and to avoid compromising ongoing operations.