Rajasthan ATS detains Tonk youth over suspected terror links, probe underway
New Delhi, Aug 9 (IANS) The Rajasthan Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has detained a youth identified as Wasit from Tonk over suspected links with a terrorist organisation, sources said on Sunday, even as the security agencies step up scrutiny of possible terror networks operating in the state.
According to sources, Wasit was taken to Jaipur for questioning and may subsequently be brought to Delhi for further interrogation. Investigators are also examining whether he was in contact with a handler allegedly linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
ATS teams also conducted searches at Wasit’s residence in Tonk as part of the investigation. During the search, officials are learnt to have seized digital devices and details relating to bank accounts and financial transactions, sources said.
The material recovered during the searches is likely to be examined as investigators seek to establish the nature and extent of the suspected links. Officials are also expected to scrutinise the digital communications and financial records for any possible connection with individuals or networks associated with the banned terror organisation.
There has been no official confirmation from the Rajasthan ATS regarding Wasit’s detention or the specific allegations against him so far. The investigation is underway, and the exact nature of his alleged association with the organisation remains to be established.
The latest development comes against the backdrop of a recent Rajasthan ATS investigation into another alleged JeM-linked network.
Earlier in June, the Rajasthan ATS, acting on intelligence inputs from Military Intelligence, arrested a Jaipur-based woman, Babita Dhakad, over alleged links with Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed. She was also known by the alias “Khadija”, according to reports.
Investigators had alleged that Dhakad was in contact with individuals linked to JeM through social media and messaging platforms. Her electronic devices and online communications were examined as part of the investigation.
The case had also raised concerns among investigators about the use of online platforms for radicalisation and recruitment. Dhakad, who was originally from Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur/Gangapur City region and had been living in Jaipur, was arrested after intelligence inputs indicated suspected contacts with extremist elements based outside India.
–IANS
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