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The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested two individuals in connection with an online radicalisation and conspiracy module linked to extremist ideology. Officials said the network was used to spread propaganda, recruit youth, and coordinate anti-national activities through digital platforms.
The accused have been identified as 22-year-old Irfan Kalekhan Pathan from Siddhpur in Gujarat’s Patan district and 21-year-old Murshid Zahid Akhtar Sheikh from Mumbai’s Sakinaka area. The ATS acted after sustained digital surveillance supported by technical and human intelligence inputs.
Digital surveillance triggered the operation
Officials said investigators monitored suspicious online activity and flagged Pathan for alleged involvement in extremist ideology and jihadist propaganda.
After receiving specific inputs, the ATS launched a covert operation and detained him for questioning. During the probe, officials recovered chats and digital material from his mobile phone. These reportedly showed links with extremist groups, including ISIS-associated individuals.
Meanwhile, investigators found that he was active in multiple WhatsApp and Instagram groups. There, discussions reportedly focused on radical ideology, mobilisation, and recruitment across states.
In addition, officials said he maintained contact with individuals in Pakistan and Afghanistan through encrypted communication platforms.
Alleged conspiracy and recruitment network
The ATS alleged that Pathan and his associates attempted to build a structured network under the ideology of “Ghazwa-e-Hind”. According to investigators, the group aimed to recruit “mujahideens” from different states.
They also claim the accused planned training sessions for weapons handling and explosives. These included discussions around RDX-based devices. At the same time, they allegedly explored funding channels and arms procurement routes.
Furthermore, officials said the probe revealed alleged plans to acquire weapons through cross-border links. It also indicated discussions around potential targets, including political leaders associated with the RSS. Investigators added that ideological conversations included references to imposing Shariat.
Mumbai link confirmed during probe
After Pathan’s interrogation, the ATS traced Murshid Sheikh to Mumbai with assistance from the Maharashtra Police. Subsequently, they detained him and brought him to Ahmedabad.
Officials said Sheikh was also part of the same online network. Moreover, he was in contact with Pathan through encrypted WhatsApp and Instagram groups. His mobile phone allegedly contained objectionable material and chats linked to recruitment, coordination, and funding discussions.
Legal action and custody
The Gujarat ATS registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. These include criminal conspiracy and waging war against the Government of India.
Following this, both accused were arrested and produced before a court. The court granted 11-day ATS custody for further interrogation.
Investigation continues
Officials said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to track and dismantle radicalisation networks operating through digital platforms. Meanwhile, the investigation continues to identify additional links and map the wider structure of the alleged module.
