A social media trail has led the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) to arrest two people accused of allegedly plotting activities against national security and attempting to radicalise youth online, officials said.
According to investigators, the suspects were allegedly working towards building a network with the intent of carrying out attacks and promoting the idea of “Ghazwa-e-Hind”, while also exploring the use of explosive materials such as RDX. Authorities further stated that the duo had identified potential targets, including political figures associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and were attempting to recruit young individuals through social media channels.
The ATS said it has been closely monitoring suspicious online activity through a combination of technical tools and human intelligence inputs.
During the course of this surveillance, officials received information regarding Irfan Kalekhan Pathan (22), a resident of Siddhpur in Patan district, who was allegedly under the influence of extremist ideology.
Following the lead, ATS officials summoned Pathan for questioning. A preliminary analysis of his mobile phone reportedly revealed communication with individuals suspected to have links with the Islamic State (ISIS), as well as other radical elements, through messaging and social networking platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram, officials said.
