KALABURAGI: Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) at Brahmapur police station against Mumtaz Malik, who was arrested on suspicion of having links with Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Investigators are examining material recovered from his mobile phone and his online activity to establish the nature of his alleged connections.
The FIR was reportedly filed based on a complaint by Sushil Kumar, an inspector attached to Chowk police station. Police are scrutinising photographs, videos and other digital material allegedly recovered from Malik’s phone as part of the investigation.
Mobile phone and digital activity under scrutiny
Malik, who originally hails from West Bengal, had reportedly taken up employment at a jewellery shop in Kalaburagi. Investigators suspect that he came into contact with individuals allegedly associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba while living and working in the city.
During the investigation, police reportedly found that Malik was a member of several WhatsApp groups, including groups identified as “Imam Mehndi” and groups operating in Urdu. Investigators are examining the content shared in these groups and the identities of their members.
During questioning, Malik reportedly told investigators that a person named Zainul Abdin, said to be based in Pakistan, had added him to a WhatsApp group. Police are investigating claims that the individual is a commander associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba. The alleged identity, role and communications of this person remain subject to verification.
Police examine alleged social media links
Investigators are also looking into Malik’s Instagram activity and other online interactions. According to the complaint-related information, he allegedly followed accounts that posted pro-Pakistan slogans and content concerning Kashmir. Police reportedly found that he had liked videos and reels related to Pakistan.
Investigators are assessing this digital material alongside the information obtained from messaging groups and other communications. They are seeking to establish whether the online interactions indicate any unlawful activity and whether Malik had contact with other individuals relevant to the case.
Membership in a messaging group, following a social media account or liking online content does not by itself establish involvement in terrorism. The significance of the material will depend on the evidence gathered and the findings of the investigation.
FIR registered under BNS provisions
The case has reportedly been registered under Sections 113(3) and 197(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police are investigating the allegations and examining the digital evidence to determine whether the provisions apply to the conduct under scrutiny.
Further inquiries are expected to focus on Malik’s communications, the identities of people he allegedly contacted and whether any other individuals were involved. Investigators will need to establish the authenticity and context of the recovered material before drawing conclusions.
The allegations against Malik have not been established in court. The investigation remains ongoing, and any determination of criminal liability will depend on the evidence and the due process of law.