New Delhi, Oct 31 (NationPress) Security agencies are on high alert following a recent directive from Al-Qaeda in the Sub-Continent (AQIS) urging the initiation of lone wolf attacks in India. This marks a significant transformation in AQIS's strategy, as the group has struggled to gain traction in the country thus far.

Established in 2014 with the intent to execute operations across the sub-continent, AQIS was formed in Afghanistan, declaring its primary focus as India.

The organization has openly expressed intentions to liberate Jammu and Kashmir from Indian control and appointed Asim Umar, a native of Uttar Pradesh, to manage its operations in India.

Initially, AQIS attempted to create operational modules in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and various regions in North India. However, these initiatives failed to achieve their objectives due to the effective counteractions of intelligence and security agencies. Consequently, AQIS has shifted its approach, now advocating for lone wolf attacks in India.

This strategy mirrors that of the Islamic State, which similarly encourages independent attackers. The rationale behind this tactic is that such attacks require minimal investment and present a lower risk of detection.

The recent arrest of Zubair Hangargekar in Pune by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) underscores AQIS's push for lone wolf operatives.

While the ATS continues to investigate his affiliations with the group and possible involvement in radicalizing others, initial findings suggest he acted independently.

During his arrest, authorities discovered images of him wielding an AK-47 rifle and constructing explosives.

Zubair, originally from Solapur, was employed in Pune as a software testing specialist and database developer, earning a substantial income. Intelligence reports indicate he fell prey to AQIS's online propaganda, which motivated him to plan attacks.

Officials from the Intelligence Bureau have expressed concern regarding AQIS's call for lone wolf attacks, particularly in comparison to the Islamic State, which has less influence in India.

Historically, Al-Qaeda has maintained a stronger presence since the era of Osama bin Laden, and despite the emergence of the Islamic State, its loyal base has remained intact in India.

The group's ideological reach spans the northern, southern, and northeastern states of India, raising alarms about the potential for radicalized youth to heed AQIS's message.

Despite expectations that Al-Qaeda would weaken after the deaths of Bin Laden and Atman al-Zawahiri, the organization has demonstrated resilience, gradually regaining momentum.

Recent developments in Mali indicating an Al-Qaeda takeover may have revitalized the morale of its global affiliates.

Such incidents are frequently referenced in online radicalization sessions and the propaganda distributed by the group.

Al-Qaeda's encouragement for followers to execute lone wolf attacks is alarming, as they state, "Pick up the truck now, not to mow grass, but to kill the enemies." They further assert, "There is no need for an IED. If you cannot assemble one, then run your enemy over with a car." Other suggested weapons include stones and knives, along with encouragement for members to push non-believers off buildings. This kind of material is circulating extensively online as the terror group intensifies its push for lone wolf attacks in India.