India Foils Ricin-Based Jihad Terror Plot: Muslim Doctor and Two Associates Arrested

Image: Jihad Watch

In a major counterterrorism breakthrough, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has thwarted what authorities describe as a “ricin-based jihad terror plot” with the arrest of a Hyderabad-based Muslim doctor and two accomplices. The operation, spanning multiple Indian states, prevented what could have been a catastrophic chemical and arms-based attack on public spaces and religious sites.

The Arrests and Operation

According to officials, 35-year-old Dr. Ahmed Mohiyuddin Saiyed—a medical graduate trained in China—was arrested near the Adalaj toll plaza on the Ahmedabad–Mehsana road on November 7. Two of his alleged collaborators, Azad Suleman Sheikh (20) and Mohammad Suhail Mohammad Saleem Khan (23), were detained shortly afterward in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district. The arrests followed an intelligence-led surveillance operation coordinated between state and central agencies.

Investigators said Saiyed had already begun preparing ricin, a lethal biological toxin derived from castor beans. A raid on his premises revealed two pistols (a Glock and a Beretta), about 30 live cartridges, and four litres of castor oil—suspected to be part of his experimentation. Forensic experts confirmed traces of attempts to extract ricin from castor-seed waste, an alarming indication of an advanced stage of the plot.

Weapons, Chemicals, and Foreign Links

The ATS recovered incriminating digital evidence from Saiyed’s devices, including instructions and online communications that suggested coordination with foreign handlers. Saiyed was reportedly in contact with associates based in Pakistan, and his communications led to the arrests of the two other suspects from Uttar Pradesh, who were allegedly responsible for supplying weapons and logistical aid.

Authorities noted that this conspiracy blended both conventional and chemical terror tactics, indicating a deliberate intent to cause widespread panic and mass casualties. Initial findings point to the group’s efforts to source firearms through illegal channels, including drone-based smuggling networks.

The Ricin Threat

Ricin is among the most toxic biological agents known to science. Derived from castor-bean residue, even microgram quantities can kill if inhaled, ingested, or injected. Under Indian law, its possession, manufacture, or experimentation is treated as an act of terrorism under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The ATS is working with national forensic laboratories to determine whether any active ricin samples had been successfully produced or stored for deployment.

Targeted Reconnaissance and ISKP Links

Investigations revealed that the trio had conducted reconnaissance of potential targets in Delhi, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad. They allegedly surveilled offices of Hindu organizations and explored plans to contaminate temple prasad and public water supplies—a chilling tactic aimed at maximizing civilian casualties and communal unrest.

The ATS statement indicated a possible link to an overseas handler identified as “Abu Khadija”, believed to be operating from Afghanistan and affiliated with the Islamic State–Khorasan Province (ISKP)—the South and Central Asian branch of ISIS. ISKP, formed in 2015, has increasingly turned its focus toward expanding jihadist influence into India and other South Asian nations through online radicalization campaigns targeting Muslim youth and professionals alike.

Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation

The First Information Report (FIR) registered by Gujarat Police includes multiple counts under the UAPA, Indian Penal Code (IPC) provisions for criminal conspiracy, and the Arms Act. The accused have been remanded to judicial custody, with Dr. Saiyed’s remand currently extended until November 17.

Law enforcement agencies are now tracing financial networks, online communication channels, and potential sleeper cells connected to the trio. Coordination with police units in Uttar Pradesh and Telangana continues as officials work to uncover whether more individuals or materials are part of the conspiracy.

A Disturbing Trend: Radicalization Beyond Socio-Economic Boundaries

This case exposes a troubling reality that defies stereotypes about jihadist recruitment. Contrary to the common perception that radical Islam primarily ensnares impoverished or uneducated youth, the involvement of a trained doctor in this plot demonstrates that jihadist ideology transcends class and education. Saiyed’s medical background and technical skills underscore how extremist indoctrination can infiltrate professional and educated circles, making such actors even more dangerous due to their scientific understanding and access to resources.

Conclusion

The Gujarat ATS operation stands as a significant success in India’s ongoing fight against domestic and transnational terror networks. The thwarted ricin plot is a stark reminder that extremist ideologies continue to evolve, embracing both high-tech and biochemical means to spread chaos. As India intensifies cooperation with international counterterror agencies, the case of Dr. Saiyed and his associates serves as both a warning and a call to strengthen vigilance against radicalization—no matter where it takes root.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)