Saharanpur youth arrested in alleged Ram Mandir attack conspiracy, NIA-ATS joint operation

A youth from Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district has been arrested in Karnataka during a joint operation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in connection with an alleged conspiracy to target the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

The accused, identified as Mohammad Sohail, a resident of Gangoh in Saharanpur, was apprehended from the Davanagere region of Karnataka. According to investigating agencies, he had been under surveillance for a considerable period following inputs regarding his alleged links with suspicious organisations and individuals.

Reports suggest that Sohail was working as a painter in Karnataka while allegedly concealing his identity. During the investigation, agencies recovered several leads from him and examined his digital devices. Officials said photographs showing him posing with weapons have also surfaced, which are currently being examined through forensic analysis.

Investigators are also probing his alleged links with Pakistan and attempting to identify his contacts, associates and possible connections to a wider network. Agencies are examining his activities on suspicious online groups and social media platforms.

According to officials, the operation was launched based on intelligence inputs received by the NIA. A detailed investigation is underway to verify all aspects of the alleged conspiracy, including his activities in Uttar Pradesh, financial transactions and possible associates.