Ahmedabad, July 3: In a major counter-terrorism operation, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested eight persons from Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, alleging that they were associated with the banned terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and were attempting to establish an active network in Gujarat.
The arrests were made during coordinated raids carried out at multiple locations following intelligence inputs. The ATS described the operation as part of its sustained efforts to prevent terrorist organisations from expanding their footprint in the state.
Coordinated Raids Across Two States
According to Gujarat ATS, simultaneous operations were conducted in different districts of Gujarat and neighbouring Madhya Pradesh. Investigators allege that the accused were working to recruit individuals, spread extremist ideology, and establish an organised network linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed.
The agency has not yet disclosed the full operational details, stating that further investigation is underway and additional leads are being examined.
Accused Identified
The eight arrested accused have been identified as:
- Ahmed S/o Abdullah Ghaziwala
- Ibrahim S/o Mohammad Hussain Ghagha
- Mudassir S/o Abdullah Ghaziwala
- Zakaria Durani S/o Mohammad Ammar Ghagha
- Mufti Faujaan S/o Ismail Dauwa
- Mohammad Amin Shera
- Mohammad Abdul S/o Rehman Sawdi
- Bilal Mohammad S/o Ammar Ghagha
The ATS is questioning all eight suspects to determine the extent of their alleged activities, contacts, and possible links with handlers based outside India.
Booked Under UAPA and BNS
A criminal case has been registered against the accused under multiple provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), including Sections 13, 17, 18, 38 and 39, which relate to unlawful activities, raising funds for terrorism, conspiracy, membership of a terrorist organisation, and providing support to a banned outfit.
They have also been booked under Sections 148 and 61 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Officials said these provisions carry stringent penalties due to the serious nature of the alleged offences.
Investigation Continues
The Gujarat ATS is examining electronic devices, digital communication records, financial transactions and other evidence seized during the raids. Investigators are also working to determine whether the accused had links with any cross-border terror handlers or sleeper cells operating elsewhere in the country.
Officials have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests as the investigation progresses.
Background
Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) is a Pakistan-based terrorist organisation that has been designated as a terrorist group by India, the United Nations, the United States, and several other countries. The outfit has been linked to multiple major terror attacks in India, including the 2001 Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing.
Security agencies have repeatedly warned that terrorist organisations continue to attempt recruitment through online platforms and encrypted communication channels. The latest operation is part of ongoing efforts by central and state agencies to dismantle suspected terror networks and prevent radicalisation activities across the country.
The Gujarat ATS has stated that the investigation remains at a preliminary stage, and further details will be shared as the probe advances. The allegations against the accused will be tested through the legal process.