In a significant anti-terror operation, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested four men. They are suspected of being part of a secret online propaganda network linked to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). The arrests took place on July 21 and 22, 2025, across four cities: Delhi, Noida, Modasa, and Ahmedabad.
The individuals arrested are:
1. Mohammad Faiq, from Chandni Chowk, Delhi
2. Zeeshan Ali, from Sector 63, Noida, Uttar Pradesh
3. Fardeen Shaikh, from Fatehwadi, Ahmedabad
4. Sefullah Qureshi, from Modasa, Aravalli district.
The ATS operation began after receiving intelligence on June 10, 2025. They discovered multiple Instagram accounts promoting extremist ideology. These accounts included names like @shariat_ya_shahadat and @mujahideen.3. The content shared called for violence against non-believers and glorified armed jihad.
Following the tip-off, the ATS conducted surveillance and technical analysis of the accounts. They used a combination of digital tracking and human intelligence to trace the suspects. This led to a coordinated raid involving local police units and central agencies.
During the operation, ATS recovered significant evidence. From Fardeen Shaikh, they found AQIS literature linked to ‘Operation Sindoor’ and a sword. He had been seen in a video brandishing the sword while praising jihad. All four suspects had mobile phones containing videos and digital material that incited violence.
Investigators confirmed that the arrested individuals were part of a larger digital network. They used Instagram to circulate jihadi propaganda and incite violence against India’s democratic institutions. Notably, Mohammad Faiq was found to be in contact with users based in Pakistan, indicating cross-border connections.
The Gujarat ATS is now seeking data from 62 other accounts believed to be linked to these arrests. They are also examining 25 high-risk social media profiles. The aim is to uncover the full extent of this online terror network.
Legal proceedings have begun under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). All four men have been remanded to police custody for 14 days to facilitate further interrogation. Officials believe that more arrests may follow as the investigation continues.
This operation highlights the ongoing threat of online radicalisation and the role of social media in promoting extremist ideologies. The Gujarat ATS remains vigilant in its efforts to combat such activities and protect the nation’s democratic values.