The accused in the Vijayawada terror network case were allegedly working to expand the activities of AQIS and ISIS in India on the direction of a foreign handler, officials said on Monday, in what is being probed as a wider Andhra terror case.
Probe into Vijayawada terror network case reveals wider links
Five accused, including a woman, revealed details of their plans during questioning by Andhra Pradesh Police and the Counter-Intelligence Cell over the last five days.
Out of the 12 accused arrested, five were grilled by officials during the five-day police custody that ended on Sunday.
Mohammad Rahamatullah Sharif, Md. Danish, Mirza Sohail Baig, Sayeeda Begum, and Abdul Salam shared details of their alleged plans to carry out terror activities in India.
The accused told officials that they came in contact with the foreign handler through social media platforms.
Al-Malik Islamic Youth group and online activity
The accused, who had formed a group called Al-Malik Islamic Youth, confessed that their views strengthened after coming in contact with the handler.
According to sources, they were attempting to expand links with AQIS and ISIS networks and influence youth through platforms like Instagram and Telegram, pointing to possible terror recruitment India efforts under investigation.
Groups under the name ‘BENX COM’ were reportedly created to connect with individuals showing interest in such activities.
Alleged plans included recruitment and training
Some foreign nationals were also said to be part of these online groups, with claims that arms and explosives could be arranged for subversive activities.
On instructions from the handler, the accused allegedly tried to lure youth and send them abroad for training.
They were also reportedly planning a separate wing led by one of the accused to expand their reach.
The network came to light after police monitored suspicious social media activity, leading to multiple arrests across states.
Sayeeda Begum was arrested from Hyderabad, while other accused were picked up from different parts of the country.
Officials said the accused were allegedly attempting to influence and radicalise youth through online platforms.
Case registered under UAPA in Andhra Pradesh
A case has been registered under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), BNS, and the Information Technology Act at Vijayawada Two Town Police Station, making it a significant UAPA case Andhra Pradesh authorities are investigating.
The FIR names 12 accused from multiple states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Delhi, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
Officials said further investigation is underway, and questioning of the remaining accused is expected to reveal more details.
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