Malerkotla Police Crack Down on Radicalisation Network, Arrest Three Suspects
In a significant operation, the Malerkotla cyber police have dismantled a gang accused of radicalising local youths and plotting violent acts to incite panic. Three individuals, including one previously charged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), have been apprehended following an intensive investigation.
Arrests and Seizures in the Radicalisation Case
The suspects, identified as Farhan Anjum from Lohara Maler, Adnan Khan from Sekhan Wala, Malerkotla, and Waris Ali from Mandiala, were arrested from various locations. During the operation, authorities seized a .32 bore pistol, three cartridges, and four mobile phones. Waris Ali, who had spent approximately 24 months in judicial custody in a prior UAPA case, was found in possession of the weapon and ammunition.
An FIR was registered at the cyber crime police station on March 5 under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including provisions related to activities endangering national sovereignty, unity, and integrity, as well as criminal intimidation and attempted murder. The arrests were made by a joint team comprising the cyber crime cell and the CIA wing, led by senior police officials.
Details of the Conspiracy and Radicalisation Efforts
According to SSP Gagan Ajit Singh, the investigation revealed that the gang, led by key suspect Farhan Anjum, was actively radicalising Muslim youths by promoting speeches of late Pakistani Islamic scholar Dr Israr Ahmed and Ahle Hadees scholar Molana Yusuf Pasrori. This was part of a broader effort to spread communal hatred and undermine national security.
The police claim that the suspects were conspiring to assassinate an important individual, with the intent to create widespread panic and gain notoriety. Preliminary findings suggest that the group received funding from Dubai, though full details of their activities are still under scrutiny. Sources indicate that a Hindu radical leader from Delhi was among their potential targets.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Actions
A critical analysis of digital evidence, including data from seized phones, social media accounts, and communications with target groups, is currently underway. The joint investigation team is working to identify any additional accomplices and uncover the full extent of the network's operations.
SSP Gagan Ajit Singh emphasised that while ample evidence has been collected to prove the suspects' involvement in radicalisation and threats to national sovereignty, premature disclosure could hinder further progress. The police have stated that several individuals were on the suspects' hit list, highlighting the severity of the threat.
Further legal action will be taken based on the outcomes of the digital evidence analysis, with charges under the BNS and IT Act likely to be pursued. The Malerkotla police have affirmed their commitment to preventing such activities and maintaining public safety in the region.
