Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Oct 24: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man suspected of links with the banned terror organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed in Mumbai's Mahim area.
The ATS's Kalachowki unit apprehended Mohammed Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar near Mahim Metro Station following a tip-off. According to investigators, the accused allegedly used his work as a Rapido rider and perfume seller as a cover while promoting radical views on social media.
The agency has flagged several social media comments allegedly linked to Akhtar, including calls for jihad, remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and statements advocating that Muslims possess and carry weapons. Investigators also reportedly recovered material described as anti-national from his mobile phone.
According to details cited in the investigation, comments attributed to an account allegedly linked to the accused included calls for jihad and messages urging Muslims to keep and use weapons. Other comments reportedly called on people to engage in jihad in connection with online discussions about efforts to save the Shahi Mosque.
Investigators also flagged an Instagram comment concerning security arrangements ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mumbai. The comment allegedly referred to an attack on the Prime Minister similar to the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The ATS has further alleged that Akhtar operated a Telegram group through which he shared audio speeches by Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Maulana Masood Azhar. According to the agency, the speeches were uploaded on June 1, 2026, and reportedly addressed issues including the Babri Masjid.
The investigation has also brought attention to Akhtar's alleged membership in a Pakistan-backed extremist Telegram channel named 'IBN-e-Qasim'. The ATS is examining his online activities and suspected links to the banned organisation as part of its investigation.
The allegations are under investigation, and further details about the case are awaited.