Ahmedabad: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Friday arrested five more persons in connection with an alleged terror module linked to the banned Pakistan-based outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). With the latest arrests, the total number of people held in the case has risen to 13 after eight suspects were arrested earlier this month.
According to the ATS, the accused were allegedly associated with the proscribed terrorist organisation and were involved in activities aimed at expanding its network in Gujarat. The investigation is continuing to determine the full extent of the alleged module and identify any additional links.
Five suspects arrested
The five arrested have been identified as Bilal Abid Shera, Md Aiyub Khadiwal, Md Shafi Mukhi, Md Hasan Karadiya and Md Aiyub Sunasara.
The arrests were made from different locations across Gujarat as part of an ongoing operation by the ATS.
Officials said the suspects are being questioned to gather further information about the alleged network and its activities.
Alleged involvement in terror activities
According to the ATS, the accused were allegedly members of the banned Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Investigators have alleged that the suspects were involved in testing explosive devices and participating in activities linked to the organisation.
The ATS said the accused were allegedly attempting to contact people through various platforms to radicalise them, establish an active network for Jaish-e-Mohammed in Gujarat and promote activities related to terrorist conspiracies.
These allegations are part of the ongoing investigation and are yet to be tested in court.
Earlier arrests
The latest action follows the arrest of eight suspects by the Gujarat ATS earlier this month in the same case.
Officials believe the individuals arrested in both operations were allegedly connected to the same network.
The ATS is continuing its probe to determine the organisational structure, funding sources and operational plans of the alleged module.
Alleged organisation under investigation
According to the ATS, the accused had allegedly formed an organisation named “Darul Islam Gujarat Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)”.
Investigators allege that the organisation was being used to invite and recruit individuals from different areas to join the group’s activities.
The ATS is examining documents, digital devices and other evidence seized during the investigation to verify the nature and scope of the alleged organisation.
Alleged links with Pakistan-based handlers
The ATS has further alleged that the accused were in contact with two Pakistan-based handlers identified as Abdullah and Mohammad Umar.
Investigators are examining electronic communication records and other evidence to verify the alleged links.
Officials said further details regarding the investigation will be disclosed as the probe progresses.
Investigation continues
The Gujarat ATS is continuing its investigation to identify other possible associates, examine digital evidence and establish the complete network behind the alleged module.
Authorities have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation advances.
The case will proceed through the legal process, and the allegations made by the ATS will be subject to judicial scrutiny.
Conclusion
With the arrest of five more suspects, the Gujarat ATS has intensified its investigation into the alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed module operating in the state. Officials say the probe remains ongoing as investigators work to uncover the full extent of the alleged network and its activities.