Delhi Police detain UP youth in terror probe, past ISIS links under scrutiny

Delhi Police’s Special Cell has detained a youth from Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district in connection with an ongoing terror investigation, with officials examining his alleged links to ISIS, according to sources. The individual, identified as Rizwan Ahmed from the Chhawani area of Padrauna, was brought to Delhi after coming under suspicion during the probe.

According to police sources, a 10-member Special Cell team reached Padrauna late Saturday evening and carried out the operation with assistance from local police. During the search, incriminating material was reportedly recovered, and electronic devices including a mobile phone and laptop were seized for detailed forensic examination. Investigators are analysing these devices to determine the nature of his activities.

Officials stated that Ahmed’s past records have raised serious concerns. As per reports, he was previously jailed in Mumbai between 2017 and 2023 in connection with a terror-related case, during which explosives were allegedly recovered from his residence. Sources added that phone records from that period indicated international contacts and suspected links with ISIS, which are now being re-examined.

According to investigators, Ahmed had been under surveillance for some time before his detention. Local authorities have been directed to gather information about his family members, contacts, and recent movements, while security has been heightened in the area. Officials believe his interrogation could provide crucial leads regarding possible terror networks or sleeper cells.

The development comes amid intensified counter-terror operations in Uttar Pradesh. As per reports, the Anti-Terrorist Squad recently arrested four individuals linked to a suspected terror module with alleged foreign handlers. Officials are now examining whether there are any connections between the two cases as part of a broader investigation into potential threats.