Hanumangarh Police Arrest Man with Illegal Pistol, Uncover Alleged Links to Pakistan-Based Militant
In a significant development, police in Hanumangarh district arrested a 29-year-old man on Tuesday evening after recovering an illegal country-made pistol from his possession. Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the accused person's alleged contact on social media with a Pakistan-based militant, raising serious security concerns.
Arrest During Routine Patrol Near Polytechnic College
The accused, identified as Sunil Kumar alias Dholu, a resident of Hanumangarh Junction, was apprehended during a routine police patrol near a local polytechnic college. Following the recovery of the illegal firearm, police immediately registered a case under the Arms Act and took Kumar into custody for further questioning.
Social Media Investigation Reveals Militant Connection
During the subsequent investigation, officers examined Kumar's mobile phone and social media accounts, uncovering disturbing connections. Police discovered that Kumar had sent messages and made calls via WhatsApp to a number linked to Shahzad Bhatti, whom authorities described as "a Pakistan-based militant involved in activities ranging from pouring in weapons into the country and also being in contact with terror suspects."
Investigators revealed that Kumar had followed several social media accounts using Bhatti's name and image across multiple platforms, including Instagram and various messaging applications. Police also noted that an account displaying Bhatti's photograph was found to be following Kumar's social media profiles, indicating potential reciprocal contact.
Additional Charges Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Authorities alleged that Kumar had shared and circulated posts related to weapons and other material linked to the militant, which they said could potentially aid in spreading extremist influence. Based on these findings, police registered a separate case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, with further investigation currently underway to determine the full extent of these connections.
Criminal History and District Security Concerns
Officials added that Kumar has a substantial criminal history, with approximately 10 cases previously registered against him across various police stations. These cases include serious charges such as illegal arms possession and assault, indicating a pattern of criminal behavior.
Hanumangarh district has previously figured prominently in investigations related to narcotics smuggling, arms trafficking, and contraband activities. Security agencies have flagged the route as particularly sensitive due to its strategic location. Police confirmed they are examining whether any such links exist in the present case, potentially connecting Kumar's activities to broader criminal networks operating in the region.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full scope of Kumar's alleged connections and activities, with particular focus on the potential security implications of his social media interactions with the Pakistan-based militant figure.
