The National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched a major crackdown on Monday, conducting simultaneous searches across India to disrupt the activities of a dangerous Al-Qaeda network operating within the country. These raids, targeting nine locations linked to individuals suspected of supporting and funding the banned terrorist organization, unfolded early in the morning in Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, and Assam.
The NIA’s operation, fueled by ongoing investigations, aimed to dismantle a conspiracy orchestrated by Al-Qaeda operatives based in Bangladesh, who were actively collaborating with individuals inside India. The alleged plot involved propagating Al-Qaeda’s extremist ideology, radicalizing vulnerable youth, and mobilizing resources to further their agenda.
During the searches, investigators seized crucial evidence that shed light on the network’s operations. Incriminating documents detailing financial transactions, digital devices including mobile phones, and other materials related to terror funding were recovered. These discoveries provide a concrete picture of how the Al-Qaeda network was attempting to establish a foothold in India.
The individuals whose premises were searched are believed to be strong sympathizers of a Bangladesh-based Al-Qaeda network. They were actively involved in a dangerous game of radicalizing and motivating young Muslim minds in India, pushing them towards the violent ideology of Al-Qaeda. Their efforts also included raising funds and funneling them to Al-Qaeda’s coffers.
This latest operation builds on the NIA’s previous investigations into a 2023 case that exposed a conspiracy orchestrated by Al-Qaeda operatives. In November of last year, the NIA filed a charge sheet against five accused, including four Bangladeshi nationals – Mohd Sojibmiyan, Munna Khalid Ansari (alias Munna Khan), Azarul Islam (alias Jahangir or Aakash Khan), and Abdul Latif (alias Mominul Ansari). The fifth accused, Farid, is an Indian national.
The NIA’s investigations into their past activities revealed that the accused had employed forged documents to carry out their clandestine operations. Their actions underscore the lengths to which these individuals were willing to go to spread their extremist agenda. The NIA is committed to dismantling this dangerous network and safeguarding India from the threat of terrorism.
