Ballari, March 26: In a major counter-terror operation, Andhra Pradesh Police have arrested 12 individuals across multiple states, including a youth from Ballari, for alleged links to extremist activities and online radicalisation networks inspired by ISIS.
The accused from Ballari has been identified as Abdul Salam (36), who was apprehended by Andhra Pradesh Police with assistance from local Kaul Bazaar police.
Multi-State Raids Uncover Network
The coordinated crackdown spanned across states including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, and Maharashtra. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, police conducted raids targeting individuals suspected of spreading extremist propaganda through social media.
The case was registered at Vijayawada Town Police Station on March 23, following inputs about organised online radicalisation efforts.
Mastermind Arrested in Vijayawada
The operation led to the arrest of the alleged main accused, Mohammad Rehmatullah Sharif (23), from Winchpet in Vijayawada. Interrogation of the accused reportedly revealed details of a wider network operating across several states.
‘Al Malik Islamic Youth’ Under Scanner
Investigators said the accused were linked to a group named ‘Al Malik Islamic Youth’, which allegedly worked to promote extremist ideology and incite youth towards jihad.
The group is believed to have expanded its reach by sharing radical content online, targeting vulnerable individuals and attempting recruitment.
Network Spread Across Multiple States
Preliminary findings suggest that the network had a presence in states such as Bihar, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, raising serious concerns over its scale and influence.
Accused Taken for Further Interrogation
After the arrest, Abdul Salam was produced before a local court and taken to Andhra Pradesh for further questioning. Police are continuing investigations to identify additional links and potential sleeper cells.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to preventing extremist activities and ensuring national security.
