Bengaluru, March 5, 2024: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its efforts in the Bengaluru prison radicalization case, conducting raids at 17 locations across seven states. The focus of these operations is the alleged radicalization of prisoners by a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist, T Naseer, who is serving a life sentence in the Bengaluru central prison.
Inside the Prison Walls
T Naseer, a life imprisonment convict and a known Lashkar-e-Taiba operative, has reportedly influenced several individuals within the prison walls, inciting them to carry out terror attacks in the country. His activities came to light after the Bengaluru City Police seized a cache of arms and ammunition in July 2023, including 7 pistols, 4 hand grenades, one magazine, and 45 live rounds, along with 4 walkie-talkies. The case initially fell under the jurisdiction of the local police, but the NIA took over the investigation on October 25, 2023.
The NIA Pursuit
The NIA’s recent raids spanned across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and five other states. It aims to uncover the extent of radicalization and any potential terror networks linked to T Naseer. It remains unclear whether these raids are connected to the recent blast at a popular cafe in Bengaluru. Insiders suggest that investigators will explore any suspected links.
Charge-Sheeted Individuals
In the ongoing investigation, the NIA has already charge-sheeted eight persons, including T Naseer and two absconders. Junaid Ahmed and Salman Khan, believed to have fled abroad, were radicalized by Naseer while incarcerated. Other suspects who allegedly came into contact with Naseer include Syed Suhail Khan, Mohammed Umar, Zahid Tabrez, Syed Mudassir Pasha, and Mohammed Faisal Rabbani. These individuals face charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Explosives Substances Act, and Arms Act.
Naseer’s Strategy
Naseer strategically shifted these individuals to his barracks, assessing their potential for radicalization and recruitment into the LeT. His influence extended beyond prison walls, as he sent funds from abroad to promote LeT activities both within and outside the prison.
The NIA remains committed to dismantling terror networks and ensuring the safety of the nation. As investigations continue, the spotlight remains on the prison walls that harbored radicalization, and the agency’s pursuit of justice intensifies.
