In a significant development in the Bijnor arms display case, investigators from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have revealed that the prime accused, Aqib, allegedly orchestrated a shooting incident at the residence of Arif Malik to force his recruitment into a terror network. This incident occurred in February 2022, when Arif expressed reluctance to join Aqib. Following the shooting, Malik reportedly established contact with Aqib, which led to his involvement in the network. The ATS noted that Malik's decision not to inform the police about the shooting raises serious concerns regarding his intentions and complicity in the alleged activities. The investigation has also revealed that Zulfikar, Malik's brother-in-law, maintained contact with Aqib while working in Tamil Nadu, suggesting a broader network. Authorities are examining the implications of intimidation as a recruitment tactic and are working to identify other associates involved in the case. The investigation has intensified with digital evidence contradicting Aqib's claims of innocence, particularly as he allegedly operated the network from abroad. The case gained attention after a video surfaced in November 2022, showing Aqib with firearms alongside other youths, linking him to a wider criminal network.