Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 16: In a major crackdown on ISIS-linked terror networks, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday conducted raids across 16 locations in eight states as part of its probe into the Vizianagaram ISIS case. The case involves a suspected conspiracy to spread terror through Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), with recruitment and radicalisation of youth via social media platforms.
The coordinated searches, carried out with support from Andhra Pradesh Police, were conducted in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, and Delhi. During the raids, officials seized digital devices, incriminating documents, and cash, the NIA said in a statement.
The probe gained momentum after the August 27 arrest of Arif Husain alias Abu Talib, who was caught while attempting to flee to Riyadh. According to the agency, he had allegedly conspired with others to procure weapons through Nepal's border.
The NIA took over the case in July from Vizianagaram Police following the arrest of Siraj-ur-Rahman, who was found in possession of chemical substances suspected for IED fabrication. His interrogation led to the arrest of Syed Sameer, with both accused allegedly using Instagram, Telegram, Facebook, and Signal to radicalise and recruit youth.
Investigations are ongoing under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).