New Delhi: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested eight alleged operatives linked to the Pakistan-based banned terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) during simultaneous raids in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
According to the ATS, the accused were in contact with handlers based in Pakistan and were allegedly working to establish an active JeM network in Gujarat to further the outfit’s activities.
Investigators said the group was also allegedly translating JeM literature into Gujarati to spread the organisation’s ideology in the state.
During the operation, the ATS recovered 254 items, including literature linked to JeM and the outfit’s flag.
The investigation has also revealed alleged financial links between the accused and the Pakistan-based terror group, according to reports.
The arrested individuals have been remanded to 14 days of police custody.
Seven of the accused were arrested from different districts of Gujarat, while one was apprehended in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh. The arrests included three from Banaskantha, three from Patan, one from Navsari, and one from Dewas in Madhya Pradesh.
The ATS has registered a case against all eight accused under multiple provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, including offences related to unlawful activities, raising funds for terrorist acts, conspiracy, membership of a terrorist organisation and support to a terrorist organisation.
The accused have also been booked under Sections 148 and 61 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
According to ATS officials, these provisions deal with conspiracy to commit specified offences and criminal conspiracy. Officials said the investigation into the alleged terror network is continuing.
