Nagpur Police and UP ATS Nab Key Financier in Early Morning Operation
In a carefully planned pre-dawn operation on Saturday, a joint team of Nagpur police and anti-terrorist squads from Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra made a significant arrest. They captured Idhu Islam Ghulam Zamdani, a thirty-six-year-old man described as a key financier and close associate of self-styled preacher Changur Baba.
Arrest Ends Two-Year Evasion in Narrow Nagpur Lane
The arrest took place in a narrow lane of Ashi Nagar in north Nagpur. Zamdani had successfully evaded police capture for over two years. An active arrest warrant from the NIA court in Lucknow was already pending against him.
Despite multiple previous visits by Uttar Pradesh ATS teams to Nagpur, the breakthrough only occurred after a UP team arrived in the city two days prior. They coordinated closely with their local counterparts. Sources indicate local police advised the UP team to delay action until after the civic body elections concluded. This strategic move aimed to prevent any potential flare-up of tensions.
Accused Returned to Nagpur to Cast Vote
Investigators learned that Zamdani specifically returned to Nagpur to cast his vote in the elections. This decision ultimately allowed authorities to track his movements more effectively. They executed the arrest without alerting him to their presence.
Zamdani operated under the guise of a government contractor specializing in solar technology installations. He frequently toured north India for his business. However, authorities allege he was quietly channeling funds to support the activities of Changur Baba.
Probe Focuses on Financial Transfers and Conversion Drives
Investigators state Zamdani remained in Nagpur even after Changur Baba shifted his base to Uttar Pradesh, primarily Balrampur district. He allegedly sent money through multiple transactions to sustain conversion drives. The accused claimed these transfers were for legitimate business purposes.
These financial transfers are now central to the probe. Authorities are linking them directly to alleged large-scale religious conversions.
Changur Baba's History and Alleged Syndicate
Changur Baba, also known as Jamaluddin or Chhangur Pir Baba, is accused of masterminding a planned conversion syndicate. He has long-standing roots in Nagpur. Years ago, he conducted activities in open grounds here before relocating to Uttar Pradesh.
Probes in Uttar Pradesh revealed the use of inducements, coercion, and foreign funding to convert over one thousand five hundred women. The case now involves money laundering angles. The Enforcement Directorate and other agencies are tracing vast property trails and international connections.
Electronic Devices Seized for Cyber Analysis
During the arrest, police seized Zamdani's cell phones and related electronic devices. These items were immediately sealed. Cyber experts are now analyzing them for communications, financial records, and contacts within Nagpur and beyond.
His network of associates in the city remains under intense scrutiny. This raises the prospect of additional arrests in the near future. Investigators view Zamdani as a potential source of critical intelligence on Changur Baba's full syndicate.
They hope to uncover details about funding channels and operational methods, possibly during his custodial interrogation.
Significant Escalation in Multi-Agency Investigation
This arrest represents a significant escalation in the ongoing multi-agency investigation. The probe gained momentum in 2025 with Baba's initial detention. It was followed by subsequent raids, property demolitions, and chargesheets.
These legal documents highlight anti-national elements, coded communications, and massive foreign fund inflows. Sources also stated that Zamdani's links to international agents are now being actively probed. Their names surfaced during the examination of digital footprints.
