Andhra Pradesh Police Arrest Two More in Terror Network Investigation
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Vijayawada, March 25 (NationPress) The police in Andhra Pradesh have apprehended two additional suspects, including a woman, in connection with the purported terror network investigation.
As they ramped up their investigation following the arrest of three young men from Vijayawada on Tuesday, authorities on Wednesday detained Sayeeda Begum in Hyderabad and Abdul Salam in Ballari, Karnataka.
Both individuals were transported to Vijayawada and presented in a local court, where they were remanded to judicial custody and later transferred to Rajahmundry Central Jail.
Sayeeda Begum, aged 38 and designated as accused number five in the investigation, was taken into custody from the Chanchalguda area of Hyderabad.
It is alleged that she was adhering to the doctrines of leaders from banned terrorist organizations and disseminating materials related to ‘Jihad activities’ to other group members.
Abdul Salam, identified as accused number 11, was arrested in Ballari.
Intelligence agencies have reportedly been monitoring the activities of these suspects, who formed a group on social media platforms.
The police are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the financial dealings of those involved.
The Andhra Pradesh police's counter-intelligence unit had previously dismantled the network with the apprehension of three suspects. They are believed to have established connections with suspected ISIS operatives across various states.
The suspects, Mohammad Rahamatullah Sharif (23), Md. Danish (27), and Mirza Sohail Baig (23), are residents of Vijayawada and were employed as app-based drivers.
They were brought before the court, which ordered their custody until April 6.
This trio is suspected of having affiliations with ISIS and AQIS, allegedly creating the ‘Al Malik Islamic Youth’ group to radicalize other young individuals.
The suspects are accused of trying to influence and radicalize youth through platforms such as Instagram, Telegram, and other social media to engage in terrorist activities.
A case has been filed against them under several sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), BNS, and the Information Technology Act at the Vijayawada Two Town Police Station.
The FIR lists 12 suspects from various states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Delhi, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
Meanwhile, Sayeeda Begum’s family claims they have not been provided with any substantial evidence or details regarding her involvement in the case.
Amjed Ullah Khan, a spokesperson for Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), visited Sayeeda Begum’s home and spoke with her parents, Shaik Moula and Sabera Begum.
Sabera Begum, who is battling cancer and requires assistance to move, mentioned that her daughter is a widow and the family's primary provider.
Sayeeda takes care of her four-year-old son, Shayan Khan, while also working as a housemaid to support the household. Additionally, she manages an Instagram account and produces promotional videos to generate extra income.
The family has alleged that the police did not provide any information regarding the case or the reasons for Sayeeda’s arrest, leaving them in a state of shock and confusion.
Amjed Ullah Khan assured the family of comprehensive legal assistance and emphasized the necessity of due process, transparency, and the protection of individual rights.