“Highway Edge” Codeword Exposed: ATS Uncovers Interstate Weapons Network via Telegram, 200+ Suspects Under Watch

Shamli/Gujarat: Gujarat ATS has cracked a major weapons supply network with links spanning Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat. Investigations revealed that Pakistan-backed terror handlers had devised the codeword “Highway Edge” to coordinate the delivery of weapons from Hanumangarh (Rajasthan) to Ahmedabad, evading law enforcement detection.

During questioning of arrested suspects—Azad Sheikh (Jhinjhanna, UP), Suhail (Lakhimpur Kheri, UP), and Ahmad Moiyuddin (Ahmedabad)—authorities uncovered a sophisticated logistics chain run entirely through coded language. Telegram calls were used to relay delivery locations using the “Highway Edge” code to confuse interception attempts by security agencies. Azad Sheikh confirmed that he too was contacted using the same codeword.

Telegram Group: A Training Hub for Terror Network
Further investigation revealed that handlers Abu Khadija and Abu Alha had created a Telegram group called “Teel,” where over 200 active members exchanged photos of weapons, supply locations, and instructions for India-based attacks. The group openly discussed anti-national plans, and most members are now on ATS radar.

Weapons Smuggling Along Drug Routes
Interrogations indicated that the network planned to use drug trafficking routes through Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi to transport weapons on a large scale. The three main suspects’ mobile phones have been sent to Ahmedabad Forensic Lab, where authorities expect to extract further critical intelligence.

Operational Insights During Kolkata Jamat
Intelligence sources noted that during a Kolkata Jamat, Azad Sheikh’s phone acted as the primary communication device since most members were prohibited from carrying mobiles. Call logs from Shamli, Muzaffarnagar, Saharanpur, and Delhi were traced through his phone, though ATS clarified that most individuals had no direct involvement.

ATS Confirms Arrests Imminent
DSP Harsh Kumar of Ahmedabad ATS said, “The information retrieved from the ‘Highway Edge’ code and the Telegram group is crucial. Weapons transport planning along drug routes has been confirmed, and the investigation is progressing rapidly. Other suspects are expected to be arrested soon.”

The Arrests So Far
On November 9, Gujarat ATS apprehended Azad Sheikh, Suhail, and Ahmad Moiyuddin for involvement in anti-national activities. Authorities seized a car, a pistol, three cartridges, and four liters of castor oil—a precursor for explosives—during the operation.

This operation highlights the scale and sophistication of interstate weapons networks and underscores the ongoing threat posed by Pakistan-backed terror handlers operating through coded communication and encrypted messaging platforms.