In a collaborative operation, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and Faridabad Special Task Force (STF) arrested a suspect over terrorist affiliations. Identified as Abdul Rahman (19), son of Abubakar, he hails from Faizabad (Ayodhya) in Uttar Pradesh. The suspect was caught in Faridabad, where he was conspiring to carry out a terror plot. Two hand grenades were seized from him, which were immediately defused by the security agencies.
Large-Scale Ram Temple Attack Averted
Police report that Abdul Rahman was in contact with Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI and had been primed to attack Ayodhya's Ram Temple. Investigations have divulged Rahman's involvement with several radical groups and his management of a mutton shop in Faizabad. According to intelligence, post the Ram Temple’s construction, Pakistan's ISI had devised a major terrorist plot targeting India, focusing primarily on the Ayodhya Ram Temple.
Ram Temple Reconnaissance and Attack Plot Unraveled
Further probing revealed that Abdul Rahman had previously conducted reconnaissance of the Ram Temple multiple times, sharing critical security details with ISI. The terrorists aimed to launch a massive attack on the temple using hand grenades. The Gujarat ATS played a pivotal role, receiving intelligence about the active suspect involved in planning a significant assault under an extremist group’s direction. Acting on this intel, Gujarat ATS and Faridabad STF laid a trap, leading to the suspect's arrest.
How the Suspect was Captured?
The investigation revealed that Abdul Rahman traveled to Faridabad via train from Faizabad, where a handler provided him with hand grenades. The plan was to return to Ayodhya by train and execute the attack. However, security agencies intercepted the intel and, through a coordinated operation, apprehended Abdul Rahman on Sunday.
Source: aajtak
Significant Revelations from Interrogation
Currently, Haryana police and central agencies are extensively interrogating Abdul Rahman. They are scrutinizing his mobile and other seized materials to uncover his network. Security forces are also investigating other potential accomplices and any local aid involved in the conspiracy.
Connection with ISI's ISKP Module
According to security agency sources, Abdul Rahman was linked to ISI’s ISKP (Islamic State Khorasan Province) module. It is suspected that other individuals may be involved in this module, with ongoing efforts to locate them. Central agency sources noted that the recovered hand grenades bore no specific markings, hinting at potential smuggling routes for these arms. Intensive exploration into the grenade's origin and involved parties continues.
Enhanced Security and Vigilance Directives
Post-arrest, the security across Ayodhya and other sensitive religious locations nationwide has been elevated. Security agencies have vowed that terrorists’ plans will not succeed under any circumstances, and they will soon dismantle the entire network.