Suspected JeM Operative, Who Worked As Rapido Driver, Nabbed By Mumbai ATS

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man in Mumbai’s Mahim area for his alleged links to the banned terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Investigators accuse Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar of circulating extremist material on social media and attempting to incite communal tensions.

Akhtar was arrested near Mahim Metro station by the ATS’s Kalachowki unit following a tip-off. According to the agency, he worked as a Rapido rider and also sold perfumes while allegedly using online platforms to spread radical and anti-national content.

Preliminary investigations have also indicated that Akhtar was in direct contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives (PIOs), the ATS said.

ATS Alleges Accused Shared Masood Azhar’s Speeches on Telegram

Investigators allege that Akhtar operated a Telegram group where he uploaded inflammatory audio speeches by JeM chief Masood Azhar on June 1, 2026.

The ATS also identified him as an active subscriber to a Pakistan-backed extremist Telegram channel called IBN-e-Qasim. The agency is examining the material allegedly shared through these platforms as part of its investigation into his suspected links.

Instagram Comment and Mobile Phone Under Scrutiny

The investigation also uncovered an Instagram comment allegedly posted by Akhtar on a report concerning a security lapse during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mumbai.

According to the ATS, investigators also found anti-national material on his mobile phone. The agency is now examining his online activities and alleged connections to determine whether other people were involved.

ATS Probes Suspected Network

The ATS is continuing its investigation to establish the extent of Akhtar’s alleged links with extremist networks and identify any other individuals connected to the case.

The allegations against Akhtar remain under investigation.