5 ISIS Operatives Arrested in Joint Operation
In a major breakthrough against terrorism, the Special Cell of Delhi Police, with support from central agencies, arrested five suspected ISIS-linked terrorists. Officials revealed that the operatives were planning a large-scale terror strike in India using chemical weapons and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
The mastermind, identified as Ashar Danish, was arrested in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Two other suspects, Aftab and Sufiyan from Mumbai, were apprehended in Delhi on Tuesday. Another accused, Muzapa, was caught in Telangana, while Kamran was also taken into custody.
According to police, Danish operated under several aliases such as CEO, Gazba, and Professor. He allegedly ran a “khilafat” model to recruit youth into extremist ideology.
Terror Module Ran ‘Khilafat’ Model
Investigators said the module was highly structured and aimed at creating an ISIS-inspired setup inside India. Under the “khilafat” framework, the group recruited youngsters and indoctrinated them through online propaganda.
Police sources disclosed that the suspects were in touch with handlers based in Pakistan. Communication was reportedly carried out only through encrypted social media platforms to avoid detection.
An officer said, “The module was being tracked for six months. Intelligence inputs confirmed that they were plotting a massive terror attack using chemical weapons and IEDs.”
Raids Uncover Explosives and Chemicals
During raids at multiple locations, police recovered a significant cache of materials used for making IEDs. The seizure included sodium bicarbonate, ball bearings, gas masks, electrical wires, fuses, and electronic equipment.
A search at Danish’s hideout in Ranchi led to the recovery of more chemicals believed to be used in preparing explosives. Investigators believe these items were part of an advanced plan to build chemical weapons capable of causing mass casualties.
Authorities are currently analyzing digital devices and documents recovered from the suspects to identify their funding sources, communication channels, and possible international links.
Attack Foiled, Probe Expands
Officials confirmed that the arrests averted a potential large-scale terror strike. The suspects are under interrogation, and their network is being mapped to uncover sleeper cells or associates across states.
A senior officer stated, “Preliminary investigations point towards direct links with Pakistan-based handlers. The group was radicalized online and guided to assemble chemical-based explosives. Their capture has prevented a major tragedy.”
The operation highlights the growing challenge of cyber radicalization and the evolving tactics of terror outfits using chemical substances in planned strikes.
Conclusion
The arrests mark a significant success in India’s fight against terrorism. By dismantling the ISIS-inspired module, security agencies have prevented a deadly plot involving chemical weapons. Authorities remain on high alert as investigations continue into the group’s foreign connections and future threats.