An arrested engineering student from Mumbai by Maharashtra ATS for alleged links with JeM and ISIS was suspected to be involved in radicalising and recruiting youths, according to the news agency IANS, quoting the ATS investigative team. Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Thursday said that the accused Ayan Sheikh allegedly tried to radicalise people through encrypted platforms and Telegram groups. Authorities are probing suspected foreign funding through cryptocurrency and possible terror plans in Mumbai.
Earlier, the ATS registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and arrested the accused. During the investigation, several electronic devices, including laptops and mobile phones, were seized and sent for forensic examination. According to officials, digital data recovered from these devices revealed a “digital roadmap”, indicating his alleged links to banned organisations JeM and ISIS.
The investigation also found that the accused was active on Telegram channels and other encrypted messaging platforms where extremist propaganda material was shared. Several audio and video clips linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar were recovered from the seized devices. The agency also found numerous chat records indicating attempts to increase recruitment for terrorist organisations.
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According to the ATS, the accused attempted to recruit two of his close engineering student friends into Telegram groups promoting Jaish-e-Mohammed and ISIS. Investigations revealed that the two young men were only viewing the content shared by the accused and were not actively involved in any terrorist activity. The ATS has recorded its statements.
During interrogation, Ayan Shaikh reportedly revealed information about some suspicious contacts linked to foreign handlers and banned terrorist organisations. Investigating agencies suspect that several foreign nationals and alleged associates may also be connected to these encrypted platforms and could play a role in recruitment and network expansion.
The ATS is now examining the accused’s digital trail and financial transactions to determine whether any funding or logistical support was provided. Ayan Shaikh will be produced before a special court in Mumbai on Friday, where the ATS will seek police custody for further questioning. Officials said further arrests may be made as the investigation progresses.