Assam STF Busts Bangladesh-Linked Jihadi Module; 11 Arrested in Multi-State Crackdown
The Assam Police Special Task Force (STF) has busted a Bangladesh-linked jihadi module and arrested 11 people in a coordinated operation spanning Assam and Tripura, officials said on Tuesday.
The arrests were made following intelligence inputs indicating the presence of an organised extremist network operating across districts in lower Assam with alleged links to Bangladesh-based fundamentalist groups. According to police, simultaneous raids were carried out in Barpeta, Chirang and Darrang districts of Assam, while one suspect was apprehended in Tripura.
Guwahati Police Commissioner Parthasarathi Mahanta said the arrested individuals were allegedly associated with a newly identified extremist outfit, believed to be an offshoot of Bangladesh-based organisations. “The group was involved in spreading radical ideology, recruiting youths and maintaining links with handlers across the border,” he said.
Investigators said the module used encrypted messaging platforms and social media to communicate, indoctrinate new members and coordinate activities. Police also suspect the use of illegal funding channels, including digital transfers and hawala networks, to support extremist activities. Some of the accused are believed to have travelled to Bangladesh to establish contacts with handlers, officials added.
The STF recovered mobile phones, documents and digital evidence during the raids, which are now being analysed. Police said further questioning of the accused is underway to identify additional operatives and sleeper cells, and more arrests cannot be ruled out.
Officials stressed that the operation was part of intensified counter-terror efforts in the Northeast to prevent cross-border radicalisation and ensure internal security. “The Assam Police will continue to act firmly against any elements attempting to disturb peace and harmony in the state,” Mahanta said.
The arrested individuals will be produced before a court, while the investigation continues under relevant sections of anti-terror and criminal laws.
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