Gangtok, July 1: Sikkim Police have arrested a 19-year-old youth in connection with alleged online activities linked to the Islamic State (ISIS). Authorities clarified that there is no evidence of an organized terrorist module, local extremist network, or communal conspiracy in the state. The case currently pertains to an individual’s alleged self-radicalization.
The suspect, identified as Mohammad Arju from Nam Nang, was apprehended by the Sadar police in a joint operation with Delhi Police. This action was based on intelligence received from the state special branch and central agencies. An FIR has been filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
According to an official statement, the investigation led by DSP Mingyur Tempo Nadik revealed that the accused was influenced by extremist ideologies via social media and encrypted messaging platforms without any direct contact.
During the investigation, a raid was conducted at a residence on Lower MG Road, Nam Nang Road. Six family members were taken into custody for questioning, and several electronic devices, including a laptop, an iPad, and a pen drive, were seized. Forensic analysis of the suspect’s Samsung mobile phone uncovered active chats linked to a radical application called “GIM (Group of Islamic Members)” on Instagram, discussions about terrorist funding, and records of contacts with individuals from India and Pakistan. Investigators also found records of conversations related to extremist ideologies using ChatGPT. The other five family members were released on bail after no incriminating evidence was found against them.
The police disclosed the case to the public only after verifying information in coordination with various state police and central agencies. A necessary report has been submitted to the competent authorities under Section 6 of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008.
DIG and police spokesperson Tenzing Loden Lepcha reassured citizens that there is currently no intelligence indicating an imminent threat to public safety, communal harmony, or law and order in the state. He emphasized that the investigation remains focused on the activities of a single individual.
He noted that the investigation has revealed signs of interstate and international connections, which are being thoroughly examined in collaboration with central agencies and police from other states. Lepcha highlighted that online radicalization poses an emerging security challenge, urging parents, educational institutions, and the public to remain vigilant against extremist content spread through digital platforms and report any suspicious activities to the police.
Meanwhile, MLA Kala Rai from Upper Burtuk expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for serious attention given Sikkim’s location surrounded by international borders. He pointed out previous arrests of two suspected terrorists from Pakistan and mentioned that a top ULFA leader had lived in the state for years while teaching in a school.
Rai called on the administration to expedite verification campaigns for outsiders, conduct thorough checks on commercial establishments and shops, and hold landlords accountable. He stressed the importance of knowing who operates shops, their backgrounds, and their origins to ensure state security. He urged the administration to take strict and vigilant action in this regard.
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