NIA files chargesheet against 9 in IS-linked online radicalisation case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a chargesheet against nine accused in connection with an online radicalisation case linked to the proscribed terror outfit Islamic State (IS).

The accused have been identified as Mohammad Rehmatullah Shariff, Mohammed Danish, Mirza Sohail Baig, Lucky Ahmad, Jishan Abdul Majid, Mir Ashif Ali, Abdul Salaam, Sharuk Khan and Shaikh Faiz ur Rehman.

According to the investigation, the accused allegedly radicalised impressionable youth and motivated them to join terrorist activities. They also planned and prepared to make explosives and undergo weapon training, it said.

The case was initially registered on March 26 this year at the Vijayawada II Town police station under the NTR Commissionerate. So far, 11 accused have been arrested, and a minor has been detained.

In a release, the NIA said its probe had established that the accused, who are members and supporters of IS, entered into a larger conspiracy to support the outfit’s activities, primarily through social media platforms such as Instagram. Their alleged intention was to establish a caliphate in India through violent jihad, thereby disrupting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The agency said further investigation against the remaining accused and other suspects is under way.

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