Maharashtra ATS Arrests Suspected JeM Operative in Mahim
Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, a 33-year-old Rapido rider, was detained for allegedly spreading extremist content.
The Maharashtra ATS arrested a man linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed near Mahim Metro station.
The accused reportedly used social media to disseminate radical content and was in contact with Pakistani operatives.
Investigations revealed his involvement in a Telegram group sharing inflammatory speeches by JeM leader Masood Azhar.
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended a 33-year-old individual, Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, suspected of having ties to the banned terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). His arrest occurred near the Mahim Metro station in Mumbai, following a tip-off received by the ATS's Kalachowki unit. Authorities allege that Akhtar was involved in disseminating extremist material online and attempting to incite communal discord.
According to the ATS, Akhtar worked as a Rapido rider and also sold perfumes. He allegedly utilized social media platforms to share radical and anti-national content. Preliminary investigations indicate that he maintained direct communication with operatives linked to Pakistani intelligence, raising concerns about his activities and affiliations.
The investigation further uncovered that Akhtar managed a Telegram group where he posted inflammatory audio recordings of speeches made by JeM chief Masood Azhar. Notably, on June 1, 2026, he uploaded these speeches, which are believed to have been aimed at inciting violence and promoting extremist ideologies. Additionally, he was reportedly an active subscriber to a Pakistan-backed extremist Telegram channel known as IBN-e-Qasim.
In a significant finding, investigators discovered an Instagram comment allegedly made by Akhtar regarding a security breach during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Mumbai. His mobile device was found to contain various anti-national materials, prompting the ATS to delve deeper into his network and identify any potential associates involved in similar activities.
The ATS continues to investigate the case, focusing on uncovering the extent of Akhtar's connections and any further threats posed by his alleged actions. As the inquiry unfolds, authorities are on high alert for any additional individuals who may be linked to this case, emphasizing the ongoing challenge of countering extremist activities in the region.
