Hyderabad intelligence agencies have uncovered a new terror plot by Lashkar-e-Taiba, reportedly orchestrated from Chanchalguda Jail. Authorities suspect that jailed terrorist Zahed has been in phone contact with his accomplices in Pakistan to plan attacks in the city. Three years ago, Zahed had conspired to carry out a series of bombings during the Dussehra festival in Hyderabad to cause large-scale destruction.
Intelligence agencies had earlier foiled that plot by arresting Abdul Zahed alias Motu from Musarambagh, Mahmud Samiuddin alias Abdul Sami from Akhcharbagh, and Maj Hassan Farooq alias Maj, seizing their mobile phones and other materials. Zahed is currently suspected of attempting another terror plan from jail. Officials monitoring his communications identified calls from the jail to Pakistan, specifically to his brother Majid, confirming ongoing coordination.
Authorities believe Lashkar-e-Taiba is planning another large-scale attack in Hyderabad under Zahed’s guidance. Intelligence agencies also suspect that the group is receiving logistical and financial support from Pakistan to carry out the operation. Special teams have been deployed to closely monitor Zahed’s activities and prevent potential attacks.
In the earlier 2022 case, Hyderabad police had arrested Abdul Zahed, Mahmud Samiuddin, and Maj Hassan Farooq for plotting bomb blasts. Police seized two hand grenades, ₹3,91,800 cash, and two mobile phones from Zahed; a grenade, over one lakh rupees, a mobile phone, and a bike from Samiuddin; and a grenade plus two mobile phones from Maj. These seizures helped authorities dismantle the terror network and prevent attacks during festival periods.
Despite being imprisoned, Zahed’s terror network remains active. Intelligence officials report that instructions from Pakistan-based operatives, including Farhatulla Ghori, Abu Anjala, and Zahed’s brother Majid, continue to guide operations in Hyderabad. Zahed had previously admitted to receiving financial support of ₹33 lakh via hawala channels and grenades sent by Ghori. Agencies emphasize that vigilance remains critical to prevent further threats.