Patna: The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Bihar Police is set to expand its operations with the establishment of four new regional offices in addition to its existing headquarters in Patna. The proposed regional offices will be set up in Gaya, Motihari, Darbhanga, and Purnia, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of the state’s counter-terrorism and intelligence capabilities.
Proposal Submitted to Home Department
The proposal for setting up the regional ATS offices has been prepared and submitted to the Bihar Home Department, and upon receiving approval, the formation process will commence immediately. The announcement was made by ADG (Law & Order) Pankaj Kumar Darad during a press briefing at the Sardar Patel Bhawan in Patna on Monday.
ADG Darad said that each regional office will oversee the surrounding districts and coordinate closely with the Special Branch present in all districts. “The creation of these regional offices will enhance the operational capacity of ATS. Their responsibilities will include monitoring terrorist activities, as well as tracking communal, anti-national, and criminal activities,” he said.
Leadership and Operational Scope
Each regional office will be headed by a DSP-rank officer. ATS already maintains a strong presence in border areas and keeps a continuous watch on anti-national activities. The unit also monitors individuals previously convicted under anti-terrorism laws after their release, gathering intelligence and ensuring public safety.
ADG Darad highlighted the role of ATS’s social media unit, which has identified 176 individuals influenced by extremist ideologies. Out of these, 12 were counseled to prevent radicalization and guided away from extremist tendencies.
Intelligence Gathering and Coordination
To strengthen intelligence operations, every police station in the state has been instructed to designate one officer and one constable specifically for gathering intelligence. These personnel will focus on tracking illegal drug trade, liquor smuggling, terrorism, and other criminal activities, coordinating with the district and state headquarters. They will work in tandem with the CAT teams present in each district.
Additionally, the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team under ATS is responsible for monitoring 257 sensitive institutions across the state. In 2024, 194 mock drills and reconnaissance exercises were conducted, while this year, 41 exercises have already taken place. So far, ATS has trained 176 commandos, with specialized training provided at SG Manesar and Kolkata centers.
Heightened Vigilance for New Year Celebrations
ADG Darad also outlined security measures for the upcoming New Year celebrations, directing police at all levels to maintain heightened vigilance. Special instructions have been issued to border and key urban police stations, with enhanced patrolling, increased police presence at major junctions, and close coordination with SSB for border checks. Extra focus will be placed on controlling liquor smuggling and preventing untoward incidents during public gatherings.
Action Against Criminals and Seizure of Assets
The ATS has intensified actions against criminals under BNSS Section 107, focusing on the seizure of illegal assets. So far, 1,421 criminals have been identified, with 407 cases submitted to court. Asset seizure proceedings are ongoing for 80 individuals, while assets of three criminals—Kumar Ranjan Omkar (Begusarai), Rakesh Kumar aka Chunnu Thakur (Muzaffarpur), and Deepak Kumar (Vaishali)—have been successfully confiscated.
From January to December 22, 2025, ATS has conducted preventive actions against 12,69,616 individuals, with 3,63,927 cases processed under binding orders. These measures highlight Bihar ATS’s commitment to combating terrorism, organized crime, and maintaining law and order across the state.
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