NIA raids uncover 'highly radicalized jihadi terror group' in South India

NIA launched a series of searches at 19 locations across South India, including Bengaluru, targeting what sources describe as a "highly radicalized jihadi terror group." The raids, ongoing since the morning, are being carried out in close coordination with state police forces. Specific details about the exact location and the identified jihadi group were not disclosed due to operational reasons, according to sources familiar with the matter.

In Bengaluru, the searches encompassed over 20 locations, including RT Nagar, Hebbal, Pulakeshi Nagar, Shivajinagar, and Chinnappa Gardens in JC Nagar. The majority of the locations under scrutiny are reportedly linked to individuals associated with the suspected jihadi group, which is believed to be involved in anti-India activities, including attack planning and recruitment of youths.

The NIA's latest operation comes shortly after it conducted raids in Bengaluru related to the radicalization of prisoners by a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist. On December 13, six locations, including the residences of the four accused, were extensively searched in connection with the case (RC-28/2023/NIA/DLI).

The raids yielded digital devices, incriminating documents, and Rs 7.3 lakh in cash. Notably, one of the accused from the previous raid remains absconding. The ongoing investigations, registered under various sections of the IPC, the UA(P) Act, 1967, and the Explosive Substances Act, 1884, have led to three individuals currently being sought by authorities.