In a significant development in a major terror investigation, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have detained a preacher from Haryana's Mewat region for his alleged involvement in a sophisticated 'white-collar' terror network. The operation has unveiled links to banned terrorist organizations and the storage of a massive cache of explosive materials.
The Detention and Key Arrest
Identified as Maulvi Ishtiyaq, the preacher was taken into custody from Faridabad on Wednesday. He has since been transported to Srinagar for intensive questioning by investigative authorities. Officials have indicated that his formal arrest is imminent, which would make him the ninth person to be apprehended in this sprawling case.
The crackdown began with a series of coordinated raids conducted on November 10 across several states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The investigation is focused on dismantling a network that operated with a degree of sophistication, leading investigators to label it a 'white-collar' terror module.
The Explosives Haul and University Link
A critical piece of evidence emerged from Maulvi Ishtiyaq's rented accommodation, which was located within the campus of Al Falah University in Faridabad. From this residence, law enforcement officials made a staggering recovery of more than 2,500 kilograms of explosive substances.
The seized materials included ammonium nitrate, potassium chlorate, and sulphur – ingredients commonly used in manufacturing powerful improvised explosive devices (IEDs). This discovery points to the scale of the potential threat that was being orchestrated.
Network Connections and Delhi Blast Link
Investigators have revealed that the terror module has established connections with internationally banned outfits, namely Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind. This highlights the external influences and the serious nature of the conspiracy.
Furthermore, a direct link to a recent act of terror has been established. The explosives found at Ishtiyaq's residence were allegedly stored there by two individuals: Dr Muzammil Ganaie (alias Musaib) and Dr Umar Nabi. In a chilling revelation, Dr Umar Nabi has been identified as the driver of the explosives-laden vehicle that detonated near Delhi's Red Fort on Monday evening, an incident that resulted in the tragic death of 13 people.
The detention of Maulvi Ishtiyaq marks a crucial step in unravelling this complex network. The probe continues to expand as agencies work to identify all individuals involved and preempt any further threats to national security.
