Were Two 'Al-Umma' Terrorists Captured in Andhra Pradesh Planning Attacks in Three Cities?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, two terrorists linked to the 'Al-Umma' group were arrested in Andhra Pradesh, revealing a sinister plot to execute bomb blasts across three major cities. The police's thorough investigation unveils a cache of explosives and raises questions about local support for their heinous plans.
Key Takeaways
- Two terrorists arrested in Andhra Pradesh.
- They planned bomb blasts in three cities.
- Authorities seized enough materials for 50-60 IEDs.
- Investigations are ongoing into their local connections.
- Both suspects have a history of involvement in prior terrorist activities.
Amaravati, July 3 (NationPress) Two individuals identified as terrorists were apprehended in Rayachoti town, located in the Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh by the Tamil Nadu Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) just two days prior, according to statements made by the Andhra Pradesh Police on Thursday. They were allegedly involved in a plot to execute bomb blasts across three major cities in India.
Authorities confiscated a significant quantity of explosives and other materials, sufficient to construct 50-60 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
An explosive device was also found and neutralized by the anti-terror unit OCTOPUS in a secluded area near the Rayachoti DSP office.
Details about the arrests were revealed during a press conference by Deputy Inspector General of Police, Kurnool Range, Dr Koya Praveen, and Annamayya District Superintendent of Police V. Vidyasagar Naidu.
The Tamil Nadu ATS, with assistance from local law enforcement, captured Abu Bakar Siddique alias Amanullah and Mohammed Ali alias Mansoor on July 1. They were subsequently transported to Chennai.
According to law enforcement, the suspects were affiliated with the ‘Al-Umma’ terror group and were wanted for involvement in multiple bombing incidents in Tamil Nadu.
The suspects had been residing under assumed identities in Rayachoti for over twenty years, leading unassuming lives while selling saris and marrying women from the Madanapalle division.
The DIG noted that investigations are ongoing to determine how the accused acquired explosives and other materials necessary for IED production. Police are also probing whether the suspects' family members aided in the preparation of explosives.
There is a belief among police that both suspects possess technical expertise in bomb-making. It is suspected that after settling in Rayachoti, they were connected to the 2013 blast at Malleshwaram in Bangalore.
During searches at the suspects’ residences, authorities seized ammonium nitrate combined with fuel oil, slurry explosives (possibly containing TNT or nitroglycerin), a 20 kg suitcase bomb, and two additional containers suspected to be IEDs. Other materials included potassium nitrate, potassium chlorate, potassium permanganate, gunpowder, ball bearings, nuts and bolts, clock mechanisms, pressure switches, pull switches, and speed controllers.
Electronic devices such as walkie-talkies, radio equipment, hacking software, mobile phones, digital storage devices, and coding manuals were also retrieved.
Authorities also confiscated maps of three Indian cities, religious texts, cheque books, and property documents.
The DIG stated that intelligence agencies are currently examining the suspects' conspiracy to execute bombings.
Police are investigating whether the suspects received any local assistance for their schemes and if family members were complicit.
Presently, the Andhra Pradesh Police have not uncovered any evidence suggesting the suspects engaged in recruiting locals or providing training.
As per police reports, Siddique is implicated in the 1995 Nagur Police Station murder and explosives case, the Chintadripet bombing, and the 2011 pipe-bomb incident during then Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani’s Rath Yatra in Madurai. Mohammed Ali is sought for his involvement in bomb placements, including one outside the Commissioner’s Office in Egmore, Chennai, in 1999.
In 1999, the suspects were reportedly transporting explosives on the Cochin–Kurla Express when a fire erupted. They were intercepted at Kasaragod in Kerala.
Rayachoti police also apprehended Abu Bakar Siddique’s spouse, Sheikh Sair Banu, and Mohammed Ali’s spouse, Sheikh Shameem. They have been presented before a court in Rayachoti, which has placed them in judicial custody. The two women have since been transferred to Kadapa Jail.
Point of View
It’s crucial to highlight the implications of this incident on our collective security. The arrest of these individuals not only underscores the persistent threat of terrorism but also raises concerns about local support systems. It is imperative for law enforcement to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing such threats, ensuring the safety of our communities while respecting the rights of all citizens.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the motive behind the terrorists' plot?
The arrested individuals allegedly aimed to execute bomb blasts in three significant cities, highlighting their intent to inflict harm and instill fear.
How did the authorities apprehend the suspects?
The Tamil Nadu Anti-Terrorism Squad, with local police assistance, captured the suspects during an operation in Rayachoti.
What type of explosives were found?
Authorities seized a range of materials, including ammonium nitrate, slurry explosives, and a suitcase bomb, sufficient to construct numerous IEDs.
Are the suspects connected to other terrorist activities?
Yes, the suspects are reportedly linked to previous bomb blasts in Tamil Nadu and have been wanted for their roles in various terrorist incidents.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, focusing on the suspects' backgrounds, their acquisition of explosives, and any potential local support they may have had.
