Did Kerala Police Recommend NIA Investigation into ISIS Recruitment of a 16-Year-Old Boy?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kerala Police Chief recommends NIA involvement in a serious case.
- Allegations involve ISIS recruitment of a minor.
- Case highlights broader concerns regarding radicalization.
- The investigation is currently under UAPA.
- Authorities are focused on potential cross-border connections.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 19 (NationPress) In a crucial turn of events, Kerala Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar has urged the state government to transfer the investigation regarding the alleged recruitment of a 16-year-old boy into ISIS to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The police chief has formally requested the state government’s sanction to hand over the inquiry, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations and the implications for national security.
This case, which is currently being examined under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), was initially reported at the Venjaramoodu Police Station in the state capital.
The complaint involves a woman from Pathanamthitta and her second husband from Vembayam, who allegedly converted to another religion after their marriage and attempted to indoctrinate her son from her first marriage.
The couple is currently residing in the area, and the police have filed a case against them under UAPA.
The investigation is presently under the supervision of the Attingal Deputy Superintendent of Police. Due to the case’s classification under anti-terror laws and the potential for cross-border issues, including suspected ideological indoctrination through propaganda videos, the police chief has asserted that a specialized national agency is more suitable for a thorough investigation.
In light of the severity of the allegations, the NIA has already initiated a preliminary inquiry.
This action reflects the seriousness with which state law enforcement is addressing this incident, viewed as a rare case of attempted terror recruitment within a familial context.
Once state approval is granted, the case is expected to transition formally to the NIA for an extensive investigation, focusing on possible digital, international, and ideological connections.
The teenager, who reportedly fled from a religious study center where he was allegedly being influenced, is currently safe with relatives of his biological father.
Authorities believe that an NIA-led investigation could clarify whether this incident is part of a broader network or an isolated occurrence, potentially leading to a more extensive inquiry into radicalization efforts aimed at minors.