BDS student held in Moradabad for suspected ISIS links

A suspected terrorist with alleged links to the Islamic State has been arrested from Moradabad by Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad, as per reports. 

The accused, identified as Harish Ali, is reportedly  from Saharanpur and is reportedly a second-year student in the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program.

According to reports citing officials, Haris Ali was allegedly connected with online ISIS networks and was in contact with handlers and supporters of extremist groups. Investigators claim he was involved in spreading extremist ideology and encouraging activities that could harm the Indian government. Authorities believe his goal was to promote a system based on strict Sharia law and establish a “Caliphate” rule, similar to the ideology followed by ISIS.

During the investigation, officials reportedly discovered that the accused had created multiple fake accounts on social media platforms, including Instagram. He also used encrypted communication apps, such as Session and Discord, to stay in touch with other members. To hide his identity and online activities, he reportedly used a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

The ATS reportedly said Haris Ali had formed multiple online groups where he allegedly shared ISIS propaganda material. This included extremist videos, speeches of militants, photos of deceased fighters, and other radical content. Investigators also revealed that he had created a propaganda group named AI Ittehad Media Foundation to spread extremist messages and influence young people online.

Officials stated that the suspect had been under surveillance for a long time before his arrest. A case has now been registered against him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. Authorities are also searching for other individuals who might be connected to this network.

The arrest is being seen as a major success for the ATS in preventing potential extremist activities and exposing online radicalisation efforts in western Uttar Pradesh.