UP ATS Arrests Azamgarh Youth Over Alleged Online Radicalisation and Recruitment Network
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a 19-year-old man from Azamgarh on allegations of using WhatsApp and other encrypted communication platforms to radicalise and recruit young individuals into extremist activities. The accused, identified as Mohammad Nabeel from the Didarganj area of Azamgarh, has been booked under Sections 152 and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as well as Sections 18 and 38 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
According to investigators, Nabeel was allegedly involved in promoting the ideology of Anwar al-Awlaki, a known Al-Qaeda ideologue. During the investigation, authorities reportedly recovered extremist content, coded communications, and conversations related to weapons and explosive materials. Officials also alleged that efforts were made to collect funds under the guise of supporting jihad-related activities.
Alleged Modus Operandi
The ATS claimed that the accused operated a WhatsApp group named “La Ghalib Illallah,” which was allegedly used to influence and recruit young people. Investigators stated that members of the group were provided with literature authored by Anwar al-Awlaki and former Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) chief Maulana Asim Umar. Participants were allegedly referred to as “mujahideen,” while coded terms such as “trip,” “pen,” “juice,” and “project” were reportedly used to signify jihad, knives, chemicals, and operational plans.
Authorities further alleged that discussions within the group included conversations related to bomb-making techniques, procurement of chemicals such as potassium nitrate, and the circulation of related instructional videos. According to the ATS, the network extended beyond Uttar Pradesh and included individuals from Jammu and Kashmir as well as foreign nationals.
Investigators also identified another WhatsApp group, “Flames of War,” which allegedly included participants from Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Saudi Arabia. Intelligence inputs cited by the ATS further suggested discussions concerning the concept of “Ghazwa-e-Hind” and alleged attempts to coordinate activities with individuals based in Pakistan. The investigation remains ongoing as security agencies continue to examine the extent of the network and any potential links to extremist organisations.
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