On Monday, India’s Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad arrested four Sri Lankan nationals at Ahmedabad airport who are believed to have links with the Islamic State (ISIS) group. The suspects were reportedly in contact with a key ISIS leader known as Abu. However, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to comment on the arrests. Details of the arrest are available online.
In their possession, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad discovered an ISIS flag and three loaded pistols. Upon investigating their mobile phones, additional photos and videos were found suggesting the suspects’ involvement with the militant group. The police also found more weapons and another ISIS flag at a residence near Ahmedabad. A brief video has illustrated some key aspects of the investigation .
After their travel from Colombo to Chennai and then to Ahmedabad, they were alleged to have been instructed by a Pakistani handler to collect the weapons. The suspects told police during interrogation that they were previously associated with the banned Sri Lankan militant group, National Thowheeth Jamath (NJT), as reported by local media. More information can be accessed at the Deccan Herald and BBC.
During the interrogation, the suspects admitted to planning terrorist activities in India, supported by substantial financial backing. Consequently, they were booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and the Arms Act.
Following the arrest, security has been increased at Ahmedabad International Airport by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), coinciding with the arrival of Indian Premier League teams for the 2024 play-off. This arrest follows the earlier detention of Haris Farooqi, the alleged ISIS head in India, by Assam police, marking continued efforts to counter terrorist activities in India. More about this arrest can be seen on the Assam police’s twitter.