The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested four individuals linked to the global terror outfit al-Qaeda. The suspects were allegedly involved in running a fake currency racket and spreading the terror group’s ideology using social media and encrypted messaging apps. One of the four was arrested from a different state, according to the ATS.
Identified as Mohd Faiq, Mohd Fardeen, Sefullah Kureshi, and Zeeshan Ali, the accused reportedly used suspicious mobile applications with auto-delete features to avoid leaving any communication trace. According to sources, these apps were employed to share al-Qaeda propaganda while concealing their digital footprint.
Accused Interrogated; ATS Scans Social Media Activity
Gujarat ATS officials said the four had longstanding links with al-Qaeda and had initially come in contact with the group through various social media platforms. Their activities came under the scanner when they were detected discussing terror-related plans concerning the state.
The ATS is currently analysing their chats and online handles to uncover further links and intentions. Officials confirmed that the suspects are being interrogated to determine the full extent of their operations and any broader connections.
al-Qaeda, founded by Osama bin Laden’s mentor Sheikh Abdullah Azzam, originated from Makhtab al-Khidamat, an organization set up to fund fighters in Afghanistan. Over the years, the group and its affiliates have been associated with major terror attacks across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
