Accused used social media and encrypted apps to spread ISIS propaganda and recruit members
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 19-year-old dentistry student for allegedly being linked to an online module of theterror outfit ISIS, officials said on Monday.
Arrest in Moradabad
The accused, identified as Haarish Ali, a resident of Saharanpur, was arrested from Moradabad on Sunday during an ongoing probe into ISIS-linked online activities in India.
Online radicalisation network
According to ATS officials, the second-year BDS student was in contact with ISIS handlers and sympathisers through social media platforms like Instagram and encrypted applications such as Discord and Session.
Investigators said several online groups were being operated to spread extremist ideology and recruit individuals with the aim of establishing a Sharia-based system.
Propaganda and recruitment activities
The groups were allegedly used to circulate propaganda content, extremist literature, and operational instructions related to ISIS.
A case has been registered at the ATS police station in Lucknow under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Use of VPNs and fake identities
During the investigation, officials found that the accused allegedly created multiple online groups using pseudonyms and virtual private networks (VPNs) to avoid detection.
He is also accused of running a group named “Al Ittihad Media Foundation” and maintaining contacts with individuals linked to ISIS networks both in India and abroad.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
