NIA busts ISIS module planning terror attacks in Kerala
New Delhi (IANS). The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday said it has busted a Kerala-based ISIS module with the arrest of one Ashif alias Mathilakath Kodayil Ashraf from his hideout near Sathyamangalam in Tamil Nadu.
“We have averted possible terror attacks on places of worship by busting a Kerala-based ISIS module,” NIA said.
Based on credible inputs and investigation, NIA launched a joint operation with Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Kerala Police and conducted searches at several locations.
Raids were conducted at three locations in Thrissur and one in Palakkad, which busted the IS module, which was carrying out reconnaissance missions and planning terrorist attacks.
On Tuesday, the NIA arrested Ashif from Sathyamangalam. The next day, searches were conducted at the homes of Ashif as well as three others, who were identified as Syed Nabeel Ahmed of Thrissur, Shias T.S. And done as Rais of Palakkad. Digital devices and incriminating documents were seized during these raids.
An NIA official said, “The module was engaged in promoting IS activities and raising funds for carrying out terror attacks by carrying out dacoities and other criminal activities. They had already conducted recce of some prominent places including places of worship in the state.” Their intention was to spread terror and create a communal divide in Kerala.”
The NIA had registered a case on July 11 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
