Investigators are examining alleged extremist posts, audio clips of Masood Azhar’s speeches and suspected contacts with Pakistani intelligence operatives
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man from Mumbai’s Mahim area over his alleged links with the banned terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Investigators are examining his online activities and possible connections with Pakistan-based intelligence operatives.
The accused, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, was arrested by the ATS’s Kalachowki unit near Mahim Metro station following a tip-off about his suspected activities, according to media reports. Akhtar reportedly worked as a Rapido bike-taxi rider and also sold perfumes.
ATS examines alleged extremist content on social media
According to investigators, Akhtar used social media platforms to circulate inflammatory material and content suspected of promoting radical ideology and communal hostility.
The ATS reportedly found objectionable posts and audio clips featuring speeches by Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Maulana Masood Azhar on the accused’s mobile phone. Investigators are also examining alleged audio recordings shared through a Telegram group, including speeches concerning the Babri Masjid and other issues.
The agency is further looking into Akhtar’s reported subscription to a Telegram channel named ‘IBN-e-Qasim’, which investigators suspect is linked to extremist propaganda.
Online comment about Prime Minister Modi under scrutiny
Investigators are also examining a social media comment allegedly posted by Akhtar on a report concerning a security breach during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mumbai.
The alleged comment, along with other posts attributed to the accused, forms part of the inquiry into whether his online activity involved incitement to violence or the promotion of communal enmity.
Possible Pakistan links being investigated
The ATS is probing suspected contacts between Akhtar and Pakistani intelligence operatives. Investigators are analysing his digital activity and online contacts to establish the nature and extent of the alleged connections and determine whether other individuals may also be involved.
A case has reportedly been registered against him under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with promoting enmity between groups on specified grounds and acts prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony.
His seized mobile phone and other digital material are being examined as part of the investigation. The authorities are yet to establish the full extent of the alleged links, and the allegations remain subject to investigation.
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