Mumbai ATS Arrests Man Over Suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed Links

The Mumbai Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man from Mahim over alleged links to Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), with investigators also probing a possible connection with Pakistani intelligence operatives.

The accused, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, was arrested on Saturday. According to a report by news agency ANI, investigators are examining his alleged contacts with Pakistani intelligence operatives as part of the ongoing investigation.

What Did the Mumbai ATS Find on the Accused’s Phone?

According to the ATS, an examination of Akhtar’s mobile phone revealed inflammatory social media posts and audio clips featuring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar.

Investigators reportedly traced the case to the accused’s social media activity and a Telegram group. The material recovered from his phone is being examined in connection with the suspected links to the Pakistan-based organisation.

However, the allegations remain under investigation. The discovery of online posts and audio clips does not, by itself, establish the accused’s involvement in terrorist activities or prove a connection with Pakistani intelligence operatives.

Pakistan Intelligence Link Under Investigation

Alongside the suspected JeM connection, investigators are examining whether Akhtar had contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives, ANI reported.

The alleged intelligence angle adds another dimension to the case, although the available information does not specify the nature of the suspected contact or provide details of any alleged instructions, communications or activities linked to foreign intelligence personnel.

Further details about the investigation, including any additional evidence recovered by the ATS, have not been provided in the available report.

Which Legal Provision Has Been Invoked?

The Kalachowki unit of the Mumbai ATS has registered a case against Akhtar under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Section 196(1) addresses the promotion of enmity between different groups on grounds including religion, race, place of birth, residence, language and other specified characteristics, as well as acts prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony, subject to the provision’s statutory conditions.

The registration of a case under this provision does not amount to a conviction. The allegations against the accused will have to be examined through the legal process, and the available report does not establish the outcome of any subsequent court proceedings.

What Happens Next in the Investigation?

The Mumbai ATS investigation centres on the material allegedly found on Akhtar’s phone, his social media activity and the Telegram group linked to the case. Investigators are also examining the reported possibility of contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives.

The next developments will depend on the evidence gathered by investigators and any further details formally disclosed by the authorities. Until the investigation and legal proceedings establish the relevant facts, the alleged links to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Pakistani intelligence should be treated as allegations rather than proven findings.