Mumbai ATS Nabs 33-Year-Old Mahim Resident for Alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed Links; Incriminating Audios of Masood Azhar Recovered
MUMBAI: In a major counter-terrorism crackdown, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, from Mumbai’s Mahim area for his alleged association with the banned terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
According to official sources, the arrest was executed by the Kalachowki unit of the Mumbai ATS following actionable digital intelligence regarding radical extremist activities online.
Digital Footprints and Radical Content Seized
During a preliminary forensic sweep of the accused’s mobile device, investigators uncovered inflammatory social media posts, extremist messaging, and multiple audio recordings delivered by JeM chief and designated terrorist Maulana Masood Azhar.
The counter-terror agency revealed that the accused came under electronic surveillance after engaging in radical online forums and operating within an extremist Telegram network. Agency officials are actively probing whether Akhtar was in direct touch with Pakistani intelligence operatives and exploring potential sleeper-cell recruitments or logistical operations.
Legal Action Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Following the recovery of incriminating material, the Kalachowki unit registered a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Legal Provision: Section 196(1) of the BNS penalizes acts promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, or caste, and committing acts prejudicial to the maintenance of social harmony.
Further Interrogation: Investigators are tracking the origin and forward transmission of the retrieved audio clips and digital communication logs to identify potential local associates.
Further forensic analysis of the seized hardware and encrypted chat applications is underway.