The Rajasthan Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has uncovered a sophisticated sleeper cell network operating via WhatsApp, with active links to Pakistan-based handlers. The revelation came after the arrest of a woman suspected of having ties to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror group. The ATS stated that the network was being used to radicalize individuals and coordinate potential attacks within India.
Arrest and Initial Findings
The woman, identified as 32-year-old Razia Begum, was nabbed from a hideout in Jaipur on June 23. During interrogation, she disclosed that she had been in contact with a Pakistani handler through encrypted WhatsApp messages. The ATS recovered multiple SIM cards, a laptop, and incriminating documents from her possession. According to ATS officials, Razia had been tasked with recruiting young men for terror activities and arranging safe houses for operatives.
“Razia Begum was part of a larger sleeper cell network that has been active for at least a year. Our investigation has revealed that the handlers are based in Pakistan and use WhatsApp to communicate with their agents in India,” said an ATS spokesperson.
Scope of the Network
The ATS believes that the network extends beyond Rajasthan, with potential cells in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Preliminary investigations suggest that the group was planning a series of coordinated attacks targeting public places and government installations. The ATS has launched a statewide search for other suspects identified through Razia’s communications.
“This is a major breakthrough. We have identified at least five other individuals who are part of this network. They are being tracked, and arrests are expected soon,” added the spokesperson.
Technical Details of the Operation
The ATS used advanced cyber forensic tools to trace the WhatsApp messages, which were often deleted after reading. The handlers used multiple virtual numbers and VPNs to mask their locations. The ATS has shared the technical findings with the Ministry of Home Affairs and other state police forces to alert them about the modus operandi.
“The use of encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp poses a significant challenge for security agencies. However, we have developed capabilities to monitor such activities without breaching privacy laws,” the ATS official explained.
Political Reactions
The revelation has sparked a political storm, with opposition parties criticizing the central government for not doing enough to curb cross-border terrorism. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot demanded a thorough probe and called for stricter surveillance of digital communications. “This is a serious threat to national security. The central government must take immediate action and work with states to dismantle such networks,” Gehlot said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured that the central agencies are coordinating with the Rajasthan ATS and that all necessary measures are being taken. “We will not spare anyone involved in anti-national activities. The entire network will be neutralized,” Shah stated.
Impact on Security Protocols
The ATS has recommended a review of security protocols at border checkpoints and increased monitoring of suspicious financial transactions linked to terror funding. The case has also highlighted the need for enhanced cyber security training for local police forces to tackle tech-savvy terror networks.
According to sources, the ATS has alerted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) about the case. The NIA is likely to take over the investigation given the interstate and international dimensions.
