Mumbai, April 16: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has conducted a significant operation related to a terror network linked to Mumbai. They interrogated an 18-year-old NEET aspirant from Varanasi for nearly eight hours. Authorities also seized several electronic devices during the operation. The young man has been summoned for further questioning on April 22.
Officials reported that the Maharashtra ATS, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh ATS, executed a search at a residence in Varanasi on Tuesday. The investigation focused on a doctor’s home in the Hanuman Phatak area of the Adam Pur police station, where they questioned Abu Bakar, the son of a local pediatrician. He is accused of having connections to a digital network associated with the banned Pakistan-based terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed.
The inquiry into Abu Bakar began following the recent arrest of Ayaan Sheikh, a computer engineering student from Mumbai. Sheikh was apprehended under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Forensic analysis revealed a large network operating on encrypted messaging platforms.
The investigation is centered on a suspicious digital trail linked to a Telegram group under scrutiny for extremist activities. The Maharashtra ATS has discovered that an account associated with the young man was part of this online terror network. It was also revealed that the arrested suspect Ayaan Sheikh, Abu Bakar, and several other youths from different states were active in Telegram channels and various WhatsApp groups named “Islamic Politics,” where anti-government and anti-national content was shared.
According to ATS officials, Abu Bakar had been active on these platforms for several months. During this time, he shared objectionable images and videos and participated in discussions targeting the state’s sovereignty.
Prior to the raid, the Mumbai ATS monitored Abu Bakar’s mobile number for several days to track his activities and assess his alleged connections, particularly with individuals based in Pakistan.
During the operation, the house was found locked from the inside. Consequently, the joint ATS teams conducted a search of the premises and collected information related to the family’s background and financial records for further investigation. Authorities later seized several electronic devices, including a laptop, three mobile phones, and a printer, which have been sent for forensic analysis. Although Abu Bakar was not arrested, he has been issued a summons to appear before the Mumbai ATS for further questioning on April 22.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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