Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
The Kerala Anti-Terrorist Squad has registered a fresh case and arrested a 26-year-old man from Malappuram over links to an anti-national group, following an investigation into an offensive comment he allegedly posted under a video featuring the daughter of a victim of the Pahalgam terror attack, sources said on Thursday.
The accused, identified as Muhammed Sanoof of Aikkarappadi in Malappuram district, was detained in July this year at Karipur airport after returning from Saudi Arabia. Officials said the fresh ATS case was filed after evidence emerged during an earlier probe by the Idukki police.
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Last year, the Muttam police in Idukki district had registered a case against Sanoof for allegedly posting the offensive comment under a video featuring the daughter of N Ramachandran, a Kochi native who was killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. Police later invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against him.
According to police sources, an examination of Sanoof’s mobile phone allegedly revealed links with some anti-national groups. The probe also allegedly found that he was part of a Signal messaging group suspected of conspiring to carry out anti-national activities across India.
Based on this material, the ATS registered a case against Sanoof and other alleged members of the group last month.
The other accused named in the case are Azhari Kuraishi, Faizan Mohammed, Shaheer, Shoeb Ammed and Ibn Ahamed, sources said. Efforts are under way to identify and trace the other accused, who are suspected to be from different parts of the country, they added.
The case has been registered under Sections 148 and 149 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which relate to conspiracy and preparation to wage war against the Government of India.
The ATS has also invoked Sections 18 and 18B of the UAPA, dealing with conspiracy or attempt to commit a terrorist act and recruitment for a terrorist act.
Officials said Sanoof was recently arrested in the second case and was produced before the Ernakulam Additional District and Sessions Court on Wednesday.
After considering the custody application, Additional District and Sessions Judge Suresh Babu VPM remanded him in ATS custody till September 18.
Sources said the ATS has informed the National Investigation Agency about the case and is investigating whether the group was involved in any terrorist activities in the country.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
