Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Aug 5: In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing probe into an alleged Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) module, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has recovered a semi-automatic pistol and three live rounds from the possession of Zeeshan Ali, a key accused arrested last month.

The weapon was seized during a follow-up operation at Ali’s residence in Noida, based on disclosures made during interrogation. The recovery adds a critical layer to the case, as the ATS investigates the group's access to illegal arms and its broader agenda of radicalisation and violence.

Arms Linked to Radical Plot

Zeeshan Ali was one of four individuals arrested on July 22 — alongside Fardin Sheikh, Saifulla Qureshi, and Mohammad Faiq — for allegedly promoting AQIS ideology online, inciting violence in the name of “Ghazwa-e-Hind,” and calling for an armed uprising against the Indian government.

ATS officials stated that during digital surveillance, Ali was already suspected to possess illegal arms. He voluntarily revealed the location of the firearm during intensive questioning, which led to the recovery of the weapon from his Noida home.

The operation was led by Inspector Nikhil Brahmbhatt and Sub-Inspector A.R. Chaudhary, under the supervision of DySP Virajeetsinh Parmar.

Legal proceedings have been initiated under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Key Arrest in Bengaluru

As part of the expanding investigation, the ATS arrested Shama Parveen from Bengaluru on July 27, believed to be a key figure in the radical network.
Authorities are now focused on mapping the wider network, assessing links with other extremist outfits, and evaluating the risk posed by the group’s radical messaging.

Gujarat ATS: At the Frontline of National Security

The Gujarat ATS, a specialised unit under the state police, has a proven record in tackling terrorism, dismantling sleeper cells, and tracking radical content across digital platforms.

Working in collaboration with central agencies like the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the squad uses cyber forensics, covert operations, and intelligence-led tactics to thwart terror threats.

Besides crackdowns, the ATS is also active in de-radicalisation and community outreach, playing a pivotal role in both prevention and enforcement amid evolving digital and global terror threats.

Officials confirmed that the investigation remains active, with more arrests and revelations expected in the coming weeks.