NIA raids 5 states in Al-Qaeda-linked terror network case
What's the story
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted extensive raids across five Indian states as part of its ongoing probe into an alleged Al-Qaeda-linked terror network case. The operation, which took place on Wednesday, targeted 10 locations in West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya, Haryana, and Gujarat. The investigation was launched after illegal Bangladeshi immigrants allegedly used fake IDs to fund and promote the banned group's activities within India.
Suspects identified
Four Bangladeshi nationals involved in the case
The case dates back to 2023 when the NIA's investigation revealed the involvement of four Bangladeshi nationals. They are Mohd Sojibmiyan, Munna Khalid Ansari (also known as Munna Khan), Azarul Islam (alias Jahangir or Aakash Khan), and Abdul Latif (alias Mominul Ansari). The suspects allegedly entered India illegally using forged identity papers and became active supporters of Al-Qaeda, according to officials.
Terror financing
Accused attempted to recruit young Muslims for extremist activities
The accused are said to have been involved in collecting and transferring funds to Al-Qaeda operatives based in Bangladesh. They also attempted to recruit young Muslims in India for extremist activities. The NIA stated, "They were found to be connected with the proscribed Al-Qaeda terrorist organization." During the latest search, several digital devices, identity documents, and other materials were seized and have been sent for forensic examination.
Delhi
NIA also investigating blast near Red Fort
The raids come as the anti-terror agency investigates the blast near Red Fort, which killed 13 people. Dr. Umar Nabi, the suspect behind the blast, was linked to Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), per reports. Investigators told India Today that he had planned the attack along with Dr. Muzammil Shakeel and Dr. Shaheen Saeed. Dr. Shaheen was also allegedly tasked with setting up the women's wing for Jaish in India.