Terrorist Fugitive Linked to Jaipur Blast Captured in Ratlam

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Firoz Khan, a fugitive terrorist, arrested in Ratlam.
- NIA had offered Rs 5 lakh for his capture.
- Link to Jaipur serial blast conspiracy confirmed.
- Three terrorists previously arrested revealed his name.
- Ongoing investigations into terrorist sleeper cells.
Jaipur, April 2 (NationPress) In a significant development, the police in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, have apprehended Firoz Khan, a wanted terrorist tied to the Jaipur serial blast conspiracy. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had previously declared a reward of Rs 5 lakh for information that would lead to his arrest.
This capture occurred on the evening of April 1, following intelligence reports that Firoz Khan had returned to his residence to celebrate Eid. A police operation, led by ASP Rakesh Khaka, successfully took him into custody and promptly notified the NIA.
The conspiracy surrounding the Jaipur serial blasts was uncovered on March 30, 2022, when the Rajasthan Police detained three terrorists -- Fakir Mohammed, Altamas Khan, and Sarfuddin alias Sefulla -- in Nimbahera. They were intercepted while in possession of 12 kg of RDX, which was allegedly intended for a series of bombings in Jaipur.
During their arrest, the suspects attempted to influence the police with large bribes to gain their freedom. Upon questioning, they disclosed the identities of 11 additional conspirators, including Firoz Khan.
This group is associated with the sleeper cell network of the banned terrorist organization Sufa. The NIA has been diligently pursuing this network, executing multiple raids in Ratlam and other areas.
On July 19, 2023, two primary suspects -- Imran Khan and Mohammad Yunus Saki -- were arrested in the Kunjro Ka Vas region of Pune. Imran Khan is suspected to be the mastermind behind the plot for the Jaipur blasts. Other operatives, such as Amin Khan alias Amin Phawda, Mohammad Amin Patel, and Mazhar Khan, were also detained in collaborative operations involving the police and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).
The apprehension of Firoz Khan marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist sleeper cells linked to the Sufa network. Investigations are ongoing to uncover additional connections and potential risks.