NIA Intensifies Investigation in Pan-India Al-Qaeda Terror Conspiracy
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted coordinated searches across five Indian states as part of its ongoing investigation into an Al-Qaeda terror conspiracy case that originally came to light in Gujarat. The massive operation targeted 10 locations in West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya, Haryana, and Gujarat on Wednesday.
Digital Evidence Seized During Multi-State Operation
During the extensive search operation, NIA teams recovered several digital devices and incriminating documents from premises linked to suspects and their associates. All seized materials are being sent for detailed forensic analysis to uncover further evidence in the case.
The case, registered as RC-19/2023/NIA/DLI (Al-Qaeda Gujarat case), was originally filed by the NIA in June 2023 under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Indian Penal Code (IPC), and the Foreigners Act.
Illegal Infiltration and Terror Funding Network Exposed
NIA investigation has revealed that four Bangladesh nationals had illegally entered India using forged Indian identity documents. The identified individuals are:
- Mohd. Sojibmiyan
- Munna Khalid Ansari alias Munna Khan
- Azarul Islam alias Jahangir alias Aakash Khan
- Abdul Latif alias Mominul Ansari
These individuals were found to be connected with the proscribed Al-Qaeda terrorist organization and were allegedly involved in collecting and transferring funds to Al-Qaeda operatives in Bangladesh.
The terror conspiracy was initially busted by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) in May 2023, following which the NIA took over the case the next month. The agency had already filed a chargesheet against five accused persons before the NIA Special Court in Ahmedabad on November 10, 2023.
The investigation continues to uncover the full extent of the terror network and its operations within India, with particular focus on the involvement of illegal immigrants in facilitating terror activities.
