The National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched a massive multi-state operation on Tuesday, conducting coordinated searches across five Indian states as part of its ongoing investigation into a dangerous Al-Qaeda-linked terror conspiracy centered in Gujarat.
Pan-India Search Operation
According to official statements released by the federal anti-terror agency, the searches targeted 15 locations spread across Gujarat, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Delhi. This extensive operation represents a significant escalation in the NIA's probe into what authorities describe as a sophisticated terror network with international connections.
The investigation focuses on individuals allegedly involved in the Gujarat Al-Qaeda terror conspiracy case, which came to light earlier this year. Intelligence sources indicate the module was actively recruiting members and planning attacks on critical infrastructure and public places.
International Terror Links
Evidence gathered during the investigation suggests the accused individuals had established direct connections with Al-Qaeda operatives based overseas. The terror network was reportedly receiving instructions, funding, and ideological guidance from international handlers linked to the banned global terrorist organization.
Investigators have uncovered that the suspects were actively working to radicalize and recruit vulnerable youth into the terror fold. The module had established multiple communication channels with their overseas handlers and were in the process of creating sleeper cells across different states.
Evidence Collection and Seizures
During Tuesday's searches, NIA teams seized numerous digital devices, documents, and other incriminating materials that are currently being analyzed by forensic experts. The recovered evidence includes mobile phones, laptops, SIM cards, memory storage devices, and handwritten documents containing potentially crucial information about the network's operations.
Authorities have confirmed that the seized materials contain evidence of terror financing and communication between the accused persons and their international handlers. The digital evidence is expected to reveal the full extent of the conspiracy and identify additional members of the network.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
The NIA has registered multiple cases related to this terror conspiracy under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Indian Penal Code. The agency is working closely with state police forces and intelligence agencies to completely dismantle the network and identify all individuals involved.
While no arrests were made during Tuesday's search operation, the NIA has identified several persons of interest who are being questioned extensively. The agency has indicated that further investigative actions, including possible arrests, are likely in the coming days as the analysis of seized evidence progresses.
Security agencies remain on high alert as the investigation continues to unfold, with particular focus on preventing any potential security threats that might emerge from the dismantled network's remaining elements.
