Mumbai, March 5 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended a 21-year-old engineering student, Ayan Sheikh, due to his alleged connections with the Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and the globally recognized terrorist organization Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), as reported by officials on Thursday.

Sheikh faces charges under Sections 38 and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), in addition to Sections 152, 196, and 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The Maharashtra ATS stated that one suspect has been detained for allegedly disseminating terrorist propaganda online, with two more individuals currently under investigation.

Responding to specific intelligence regarding potential online radicalization associated with banned terrorist organizations, the ATS executed searches at several locations across Mumbai. Following these raids, a case was filed under the UAPA, leading to Sheikh's arrest, who resides in the city and studies engineering.

Search operations were conducted late on Monday night in areas like Kurla, Govandi, and Shivaji Nagar. Officials confiscated multiple electronic devices, including a laptop and mobile phone, which are now undergoing forensic analysis. Investigators reportedly uncovered what they termed a “digital roadmap” that indicates significant engagement with extremist material and supposed links to prohibited organizations.

Officials revealed that Sheikh had come to the attention of security agencies for allegedly posting extremist propaganda on social media and encrypted messaging applications. The ATS had received intelligence regarding his dissemination of content linked to JeM and ISIS through online platforms.

An initial review of the confiscated devices unveiled various audio and video clips purportedly associated with JeM leader Masood Azhar. Investigators noted that Sheikh was active on encrypted messaging services like Telegram, where extremist content was shared within private groups. Several chat logs allegedly indicated attempts to recruit and radicalize others.

Officials assert that Sheikh not only distributed extremist materials but also sought to influence and recruit others. He is suspected of being involved in efforts to secure funding for extremist activities, although inquiries into financial transactions are ongoing.

The ATS further reported that Sheikh allegedly attempted to radicalize two other young men, both engineering students and close associates of his. He purportedly added them to Telegram groups where JeM and ISIS propaganda was disseminated. During coordinated raids in Govandi and Kurla, investigators found that while the two youths accessed extremist materials shared by Sheikh, they were not actively engaged in any terrorist activities. Their statements are being recorded as part of the investigation.

During extensive interrogation, Sheikh allegedly revealed details of suspicious communications with foreign handlers and individuals linked to banned terror organizations. These interactions reportedly occurred through encrypted messaging platforms and involved several foreign nationals and alleged facilitators believed to be part of sleeper cells and recruitment networks.

Officials indicated that digital evidence suggests the involvement of numerous youths from various Indian states participating in such encrypted groups. These groups allegedly exchanged extremist content, radicalization materials, and guidance on recruitment strategies. Authorities are now analyzing digital footprints to map influence networks, identify individuals susceptible to radicalization, and track potential operational connections to local sleeper cells.

Critical digital evidence and communication records have been shared with agencies in other states to facilitate coordinated investigations and prevent potential grassroots recruitment efforts.

In addition to examining Sheikh’s online activities, the ATS is investigating his financial transactions and digital footprints to uncover any funding or logistical channels supporting extremist operations.

Sheikh is expected to appear before a special court in Mumbai on Friday, where the ATS will request his police custody for further interrogation and evidence collection. Officials have indicated that additional arrests related to this case are possible.