A joint operation conducted by the Special Task Force (STF) and Purba Bardhaman district police has resulted in the arrest of Mohammad Hamid Mandal, a man suspected of having links with the banned terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). According to investigators, documents related to VIP movement and security arrangements were recovered during the raid, prompting a detailed investigation into a possible security threat.
Preliminary findings suggest that the accused had previously worked in a textile factory in Howrah's Pilkhana area before shifting to a rented apartment in Purba Bardhaman two to three months ago. Police believe he maintained a low profile and limited interaction with local residents.
The STF conducted a late-night raid at the rented apartment and took the suspect into custody. Officials are examining the seized documents, digital devices, financial records, and communication history to determine the nature of his activities and identify any possible associates.
Investigators suspect that the accused may have links with Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed and are also examining whether he had any association with the Sajjad Bhat network, which has been linked by Indian authorities to the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. These allegations remain under investigation and have not yet been conclusively established.
The accused has been produced before a court, where police sought custody for further interrogation. Security agencies are attempting to determine whether he was acting independently or as part of a larger terror module operating across states.
Residents of the housing complex described the suspect as quiet and reserved, saying he rarely interacted with neighbours. Following the arrest, security has been strengthened in the region while central and state agencies continue to investigate all possible angles.
Political reactions have also emerged, with BJP leaders criticizing the state's security situation. However, investigative agencies have not officially endorsed any political claims and have stated that the probe will proceed strictly on the basis of evidence.
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