Mumbai (Gurpreet Singh): The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested an engineering student from Mumbai for his alleged involvement in disseminating extremist propaganda linked to banned terrorist organizations, including Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and the Islamic State (ISIS). The suspect, identified as Ayan Sheikh, was taken into custody on Thursday, March 5, 2026, following a series of coordinated raids across the city. The arrest has triggered a wider investigation into online radicalization networks and potential sleeper cells operating through encrypted messaging platforms.
According to ATS officials, the investigation was launched after receiving specific intelligence regarding the circulation of terrorist recruitment material on social media. Search operations were conducted late Monday night in the Kurla, Govandi, and Shivaji Nagar areas of Mumbai, leading to the seizure of several electronic devices, including a laptop and mobile phones. Forensic examination of these devices reportedly revealed a significant volume of audio and video clips featuring JeM chief Masood Azhar, alongside detailed instructions on recruitment and radicalization.
Sheikh was allegedly active on Telegram and other encrypted channels where he shared extremist content and engaged in suspicious communications with foreign handlers. Investigators believe he was attempting to recruit new members and may have been involved in facilitating funds for extremist activities. The ATS also revealed that Sheikh had attempted to radicalize two of his close friends, both fellow engineering students, by adding them to propaganda-heavy messaging groups. While the two youths were questioned and their statements recorded, officials stated they do not appear to be actively involved in terror-related activities at this stage.
The scope of the probe has now expanded beyond Maharashtra, as digital evidence suggests that individuals from multiple Indian states were part of the same encrypted network. The ATS is currently mapping these digital footprints to identify other members of the recruitment cell and trace any logistical support provided to the suspects. Ayan Sheikh has been booked under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and is scheduled to be produced before a special court in Mumbai on Friday. Officials have not ruled out further arrests as they continue to analyze the suspect’s financial transactions and foreign links.
Keywords: Mumbai, ATS, Terrorism, Ayan Sheikh, ISIS, JeM, UAPA, Radicaliz
