The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested five more people in its investigation into an alleged module linked to the banned Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The agency claimed the newly arrested accused were involved in testing explosive devices along with suspects arrested earlier in the case.
The fresh arrests widen an investigation that began earlier this month with the detention of eight alleged members of the suspected terror network. According to the ATS, the latest action follows evidence and disclosures obtained during the police remand of those already in custody.
Five new arrests in expanding JeM probe
The five accused have been identified as Bilal Abid Shera, Mohammed Aiyub Kadiwal alias Mohammed Khadiyasan, Mohammed Shafi Mukhi alias Shafi Chapi, Mohammed Hasan Karadiya alias Hasan Haidarpuri, and Mohammed Aiyub Sunasara alias Mohammed Khali.
The ATS alleged that all five were members of the proscribed Pakistan-based outfit and had participated in testing explosive devices alongside the previously arrested accused.
“Two days ago, ATS questioned several people regarding the case. These people were among them. These five individuals belong to various districts of the state,” an official told IANS.
Officials said further details on the material seized, forensic examination and specific charges are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
Earlier arrests alleged recruitment, propaganda efforts
The latest arrests follow the ATS operation announced on July 3, in which eight people, including seven from Gujarat and one from Madhya Pradesh, were arrested for their alleged links to Jaish-e-Mohammed.
At the time, the agency alleged that the accused were attempting to build an active network for the banned outfit in Gujarat by recruiting members, spreading its ideology and maintaining contact with Pakistani handlers.
The ATS registered the case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Investigators had also claimed to recover 254 pieces of literature, including JeM flags and digital material allegedly linked to the organisation. The agency further alleged that some of the accused had translated JeM literature into Gujarati to help circulate the group’s ideology.
Officials had earlier alleged that the accused were acting on the instructions of Pakistani handlers and were working to establish a support network for the banned organisation in Gujarat.
The investigation is continuing, with the ATS examining the alleged module’s activities, contacts and suspected operational plans.