NIA raids uncover ISIS terror plot, arrests made in Bengaluru, New Delhi

Bengaluru/New Delhi, Dec 10: In a coordinated operation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids across the country, resulting in the arrest of 15 suspects involved in an ISIS terror plot. The crackdown aimed to thwart planned terror acts at various locations.

One of the arrested individuals is Ali Abbas Petiwala, alias Ali Hafeez (34), a Mumbai native residing in Frazer Town, Bengaluru. Ali was allegedly tasked with identifying crucial landmarks in Karnataka to disrupt peace and communal harmony. His arrest was based on information provided by Arafat Ali, arrested three months ago in Delhi in connection with an ISIS-related case.

Ali Abbas, a former Data Science consultant turned real estate worker, was reportedly in contact with overseas ISIS handlers. He organized and attended meetings related to ISIS activities, demonstrating his involvement in the terror plot. Items seized from Ali Abbas include a laptop, iPhone, weapon, Rs 15 lakh, and digital documents. His wife, Dr. Sumaiah Patiwala, has also been taken into custody.

In a parallel operation, the NIA detained Mohammad Saquib Abdul Hamid Nachan, a businessman from Bengaluru, along with several others. The arrests were part of a broader operation that led to the apprehension of 15 individuals linked to the self-declared 'liberated zone' of Padgha in Thane, Maharashtra.

Mohammad Saquib Abdul Hamid Nachan, alias Raveesh, reportedly assumed the role of administering allegiance oaths to those joining ISIS. The accused, originally from Thane, had designated Padgha as an operational base for their activities. The NIA disclosed that Adil Khot was found in possession of Hamas flags, and weapons were recovered from multiple suspects, including Firoz Dastagir Kuwan and Razil Abdul Latif Nachan.

This operation marks a crucial step in dismantling various ISIS modules and networks across the country. The NIA, taking over the case on November 6, has undertaken rigorous efforts to counter the organization's violent agenda in India. Raids, arrests, and the recovery of Hamas flags highlight the agency's commitment to thwarting terrorism on Indian soil.

(With inputs from IANS)