Have Two Lucknow Accused Been Convicted in the Al-Qaeda Case?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, a special NIA court has declared two individuals guilty in connection with the Al-Qaeda conspiracy case from Lucknow. This conviction follows a series of arrests and investigations linked to terror recruitment efforts in the region, emphasizing the ongoing battle against extremism in India.
Key Takeaways
- Two individuals have been convicted in the Lucknow Al-Qaeda conspiracy case.
- The convictions were based on serious charges under the Arms Act and IPC.
- Earlier, another individual was also found guilty in this case.
- The investigations revealed recruitment efforts by Al-Qaeda operatives in the region.
- Law enforcement remains vigilant against terrorism in India.
New Delhi, Nov 29 (NationPress) A special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has found two individuals guilty in the Al-Qaeda conspiracy case linked to Lucknow, as announced by the agency on Saturday.
As per a press release from the NIA, Mohd. Mustaqueem and Shakeel, both hailing from Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, received convictions under section 25 (1B)(a) of the Arms Act, in conjunction with section 120B of the IPC.
“The special court in Lucknow sentenced the pair to a term of 20 months in prison. Additionally, a fine of Rs. 5000 each has been levied against them,” stated the NIA.
Prior to this, on October 30, 2025, one Mohammad Moid from Lucknow was convicted in the same matter, which involves the apprehension of two members from the banned Al-Qaeda terrorist group.
On July 11, 2021, the UP Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) detained an Al-Qaeda operative, Umar Halmandi, in Lucknow for his role in radicalizing and recruiting individuals for AQIS (Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent).
“The arrest by the UP ATS was based on intelligence regarding Umar Halmandi’s involvement in radicalization and recruitment efforts for AQIS in Lucknow,” the report indicated.
The investigation demonstrated that Umar, who operated near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, was in Lucknow recruiting young people to carry out terrorist activities across various cities in Uttar Pradesh prior to Independence Day 2021.
“Umar, based at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, aimed to prepare youth in Lucknow for executing terrorist acts ahead of Independence Day 2021 in multiple U.P. cities, as revealed during the investigation,” the statement added.
Following the inquiry, the NIA submitted one primary and one supplementary chargesheet against a total of six suspects arrested in this case.
Point of View
The conviction of these individuals underlines the persistent threat of terrorism in India and the proactive measures being taken by law enforcement agencies. The NIA's efforts to disrupt terror networks are essential in maintaining national security and public safety, reflecting our commitment to combatting extremism effectively.
NationPress
29/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the charges against the convicted individuals?
The convicted individuals were charged under section 25 (1B)(a) of the Arms Act and section 120B of the IPC.
What sentence did the court impose?
The court sentenced the duo to 20 months in prison and imposed a fine of Rs. 5000 each.
Who else has been convicted in this case?
Earlier, on October 30, 2025, one Mohammad Moid was also convicted in connection with this case.
What was the role of Umar Halmandi?
Umar Halmandi was arrested for radicalizing and recruiting individuals for AQIS in Lucknow.
How is the investigation progressing?
The investigation has led to the filing of a main and a supplementary chargesheet against six arrested individuals.
