Was the autorickshaw blast in K'taka's Mangaluru linked to ISIS?
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Synopsis
A recent statement from the National Investigation Agency reveals that the autorickshaw blast in Mangaluru was part of an ISIS plot. This alarming discovery has raised questions about the extent of terrorist activities in India. Read on to find out how the investigation unfolded and what it means for national security.
Key Takeaways
- Mangaluru autorickshaw blast linked to ISIS.
- Investigation led by NIA and ED.
- Use of cryptocurrency for funding terrorist activities.
- Suspects currently in judicial custody.
- Significant implications for national security.
Bengaluru, Aug 6 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced on Wednesday that the autorickshaw explosion in the communally-sensitive city of Mangaluru, Karnataka, was linked to a plot by the ISIS terrorist group.
The Enforcement Directorate began its inquiry into the incident, following an FIR lodged by K. Purushottama, an autorickshaw driver, regarding the explosion that occurred on November 19, 2022, at approximately 4:40 p.m., at the back of his autorickshaw.
Subsequently, the FIR was transferred to the NIA.
According to the official statement from the NIA, "The charge sheet in this case indicates that the Mangaluru autorickshaw blast was orchestrated as part of an ISIS agenda, aimed at instilling fear, waging war against the Indian government, and jeopardizing India's integrity and sovereignty."
Investigations uncovered that an online handler for ISIS, known as 'Colonel', provided training via platforms such as Wicker and Telegram to the principal accused, Mohammad Shariq, also referred to as Premraj, along with other suspects, on how to create improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The handler also facilitated funding through various mule accounts and cryptocurrencies, which were occasionally cashed out by Syed Yasin and Mohammad Shariq through Point of Sale (PoS) agents for a commission. Some of these funds were routed through fraudulently opened accounts at FINO Payments Bank," the NIA stated.
The total amount of Rs 2,86,008 was deposited into the mule accounts by cryptocurrency dealers, and Rs 41,680 was collected in cash through PoS agents. These funds were utilized for purchasing components online to construct the IED and for securing hideouts in Mysuru and other locations while conducting reconnaissance in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. The bomb was intended to be planted at the Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple.
The explosion occurred in the autorickshaw due to a timer error, which was set to nine seconds instead of the intended 90 minutes. Another suspect, Maaz Munir, supplied Mohammad Shariq with details of the FINO Payments Bank mule accounts for receiving payments from the online handler.
The NIA noted that the funds had been expended for the aforementioned activities, including the amount of Rs 39,228 seized from Mohammad Shariq at Father Mullar Hospital, which has been taken over by the NIA. Currently, Rs 29,176 in the bank account of Syed Yasin has been attached. All identified suspects are in judicial custody.
The ED's Bengaluru Zonal Office provisionally attached a movable property on August 5, consisting of a bank balance of Rs 29,176, attributed to Syed Yasin, a key suspect in the autorickshaw blast case, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
Further investigations are ongoing.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the implications of the NIA's findings. The involvement of ISIS in domestic terrorist activities should alarm citizens and prompt a review of national security measures. While the investigation continues, it underscores the need for vigilance against such threats.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the cause of the Mangaluru autorickshaw blast?
The blast was part of a plot by the ISIS terrorist organization, aiming to instill fear and disrupt national integrity.
Who conducted the investigation into the blast?
The investigation is being conducted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
What was used to fund the activities related to the blast?
Funding was sourced through cryptocurrencies and mule accounts, which were used to purchase materials for constructing explosives.
Are the suspects in custody?
Yes, all identified suspects are currently in judicial custody.
What are the implications of this case for national security?
This case highlights the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for enhanced security measures.
