The Gujarat ATS has apprehended five additional operatives linked to a Jaish-e-Mohammed module, raising the total arrests to 13. The suspects were allegedly plotting bombings across India and maintaining direct contact with handlers in Pakistan.

Key Takeaways

  • Gujarat ATS arrests 5 more suspects; total accused in the case reaches 13.
  • The module conducted IED trials in isolated locations within Gujarat.
  • Direct communication links established with JeM headquarters in Bahawalpur, Pakistan.

In a significant breakthrough for national security, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained five more individuals associated with the banned terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). This latest wave of arrests escalates the total number of accused in this case to 13, uncovering a sprawling network that was allegedly orchestrating a series of blasts across multiple states in India. The operatives were apprehended from various districts in Gujarat, highlighting the widespread nature of the alleged conspiracy.

Identifying the Accused and the Plot

The newly arrested suspects have been identified as Bilal Abid Shera, Mohammed Aiyub Sunasara, Mohammed Hasan Karadiya, Mohammed Aiyub Kadiwal, and Mohammed Shafi Mukhi. According to highly placed sources, these individuals had been operating covertly for over six months. Their activities included the manufacturing of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) locally. Investigators revealed that the module had conducted trial explosions in secluded areas to test the efficacy of their homemade bombs, carrying out at least six to seven such trials.

The Pakistan Connection and Digital Trail

The investigation has uncovered a disturbing international link. Forensic analysis of electronic devices seized from the suspects provided incontrovertible evidence of direct communication with the top leadership of Jaish-e-Mohammed based in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. This digital trail suggests that the module was not acting in isolation but was receiving logistical and strategic guidance from across the border. Intelligence officials believe this network is part of a larger attempt by the terror group to reorganize and rebuild its capabilities after suffering significant setbacks during India's Operation Sindoor.

The Gujarat ATS continues to probe the depth of this network, working to unravel the full extent of the planning and identify any remaining sleeper cells that may pose a threat to the nation's internal security.