A major terror module with suspected links to ISIS and Al-Qaeda has been unearthed by the Andhra Pradesh police, exposing a large-scale radicalisation network operating across several Indian states.
The group allegedly used extremist speeches, jihadi propaganda, and online channels to target young people and influence them towards violent ideology. Investigators also uncovered attempts to create a separate “Khawateen” wing to recruit women into the organisation.The network was exposed after coordinated operations were conducted in Bihar, Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Telangana, and Rajasthan, resulting in the arrest of 12 suspects.
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The prime accused, Rahamathullah Sharif, along with associates, reportedly maintained contact with handlers in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Syria, Bangladesh, and the UAE, receiving constant instructions on propaganda, recruitment, and training.According to officials, over 40 Instagram accounts and private chat groups were used to disseminate radical material, including the speeches of Osama bin Laden, Zakir Naik, Israr Ahmed, and Anwar al-Awlaki. Members also uploaded photographs holding ISIS flags, wearing masks, and raising the “One Ummah” gesture symbolising support for a unified Islamic rule.
The investigation further revealed that the group encouraged women to join a separate “Khawateen” wing. A Hyderabad-based widow, Sayeeda Begum, was arrested for allegedly coordinating with operatives in Pakistan and Jammu & Kashmir and assisting in the recruitment of women. She is currently lodged in the Rajahmundry jail.Police said the arrested suspects claimed their objective was to establish “Khilafat” in India. They were allegedly persuading young men to undertake “Hijrat” — migrating to Pakistan or Afghanistan — for religious indoctrination followed by firearms and terror training. Foreign handlers assured recruits that they would receive instruction in the use of weapons, including sniper rifles, and promised the supply of arms for future operations in India.Investigators also recovered PDF manuals and videos detailing how to prepare black powder and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), along with guidance on carrying out targeted attacks. The module reportedly received directives from handlers identified as Al-Hakeem Shukoor, Mohammed Huzaifa, Ninja, Hemroxy, Abu Muharib, and Abu Balushi.These foreign operatives allegedly instructed Indian recruits to target individuals who “do not follow Islam,” remain physically and mentally prepared for jihad, and work towards the implementation of Sharia law in India.The Counter-Intelligence Cell and Vijayawada police made the first arrests on March 24, picking up Mohammad Rahamatullah Sharif, Mohammad Danish, and Mirza Sohail Baig from Wynchipeta in Vijayawada. This led to further arrests across other states as the investigation widened.Security agencies are now probing the network’s funding channels, online communication systems, and additional individuals who may have been influenced or recruited. The crackdown continues as more links to foreign handlers emerge.
