Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 19-year-old man for allegedly promoting the ideology of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and attempting to radicalise and recruit youths for extremist activities.
The accused has been identified as Mohammad Nabeel, a resident of Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh. He was arrested by the ATS on September 12 as part of an investigation into an alleged AQIS-inspired module.
According to the ATS, Nabeel was active in several WhatsApp groups where extremist and jihadist material was allegedly circulated. Investigators also found content linked to AQIS ideology on his digital devices.
WhatsApp Group Under Scanner
The ATS alleged that Nabeel had created a WhatsApp group named ‘La Ghalib Illallah’, where members were reportedly referred to as ‘Mujahideen’. Extremist literature and propaganda material were allegedly shared through the group.
Investigators also found links to other WhatsApp groups, including one reportedly called ‘Flames of War’. According to the investigation, some of the groups included members from different countries.
Bomb-Making Videos Found
The ATS said that bomb-making videos and other material related to explosives were recovered from Nabeel’s digital devices. Investigators are also examining online conversations allegedly discussing travel to countries including Pakistan, Turkey and Bangladesh for training.
The agency is probing whether the online activities were part of a wider conspiracy to recruit youths and promote violent extremist activities in India.
Investigators are also examining alleged links with Pakistan and whether the network had any plans connected to the extremist concept of ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’.
Investigation Underway
A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The ATS is now examining Nabeel’s digital communications and contacts to determine whether other individuals were involved in the alleged network. Further investigation is underway.
