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In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Gujarat’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended three individuals, including a medical doctor, on allegations of ISIS connections and planning attacks across multiple Indian cities. The arrests occurred shortly before a devastating car bombing at Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 that claimed 14 lives and injured 20 others.
Among those detained was Dr. Ahmed Syed, a Hyderabad-based physician who had recently returned from China. Security officials discovered digital materials linked to Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) leader Abu Khadija in Dr. Syed’s possession. These materials reportedly contained detailed instructions on concealing identities and maintaining covert operations—hallmarks of sophisticated terrorist planning.
Investigators also uncovered contact information associated with Dr. Syed that featured an ISIS flag in the background, raising serious concerns about his potential role in extremist activities. This digital evidence is currently undergoing thorough analysis as part of an expanding investigation into terrorist networks operating within India.
Surveillance footage has placed Dr. Syed at Hotel Grand Ambience in Ahmedabad on November 7, providing authorities with critical timeline information leading up to the arrests. This evidence has become a central element in establishing the suspects’ movements prior to their apprehension.
Another suspect, identified only as Suhail from Lakhimpur, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested following a coordinated operation between Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh ATS units. During a search of Suhail’s residence, authorities discovered an ISIS flag, further substantiating the group’s extremist connections.
According to security officials, the suspects had developed plans beyond conventional bombings. Investigators revealed that the group was allegedly contemplating a poison attack targeting crowded marketplaces in Ahmedabad, potentially indicating a shift in terrorist tactics toward chemical agents that could cause mass casualties.
All three suspects are currently detained in Sabarmati Jail, where interrogations are focused on uncovering their motivations, identifying potential accomplices, and determining if additional attacks were being planned across the country.
The Gujarat ATS operation comes amid heightened security concerns following the disruption of a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) linked “white-collar” terror module in Faridabad, which notably involved medical professionals who had become radicalized. The emergence of highly educated individuals in terrorist networks represents a concerning trend for security agencies across the country.
In a tragic development linked to the Faridabad module, Dr. Umar Un Nabi, who worked at Al-Falah University, was identified as the perpetrator of the November 10 car bombing outside Delhi’s Red Fort. Investigators initially believed Dr. Umar triggered the explosion “in panic” after learning about the arrests of his associates. However, police have since confirmed the incident was a suicide bombing, suggesting a more deliberate attack.
The involvement of medical professionals in these terror modules has sent shockwaves through India’s security establishment and raised questions about radicalization among educated individuals. Al-Falah University, where Dr. Umar and several of his colleagues worked, has come under intense scrutiny. The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has already revoked the institution’s membership as investigations continue.
These cases highlight the evolving nature of terrorist recruitment in India, with extremist organizations increasingly targeting professionals with specialized skills and access to sensitive facilities. Security experts note that this shift presents new challenges for counter-terrorism efforts, requiring enhanced vigilance within professional institutions and improved intelligence gathering.
The arrests underscore the persistent threat posed by ISIS and its affiliates in the region, despite the group’s territorial defeats in the Middle East. Indian security agencies remain on high alert, with additional measures being implemented at potential high-value targets across major cities.
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13 Comments
This is certainly a concerning development. Rooting out terrorist cells and preventing attacks is critical for public safety. I hope the authorities can uncover the full extent of this alleged ISIS network and neutralize any active threats.
Seizure of ISKP materials and evidence of covert planning tactics raises serious red flags. Effective counterterrorism efforts require vigilance and coordination across all levels of law enforcement.
Alleged connections between medical professionals and extremist groups are especially troubling. Doctors are supposed to help people, not plot violence. I’ll be interested to see what further details emerge from the investigation.
The seizure of ISKP materials is particularly alarming, as it suggests the suspected cell may have been in direct contact with or inspired by this notorious terrorist group. Disrupting these connections is crucial.
As concerning as this news is, it’s good to see the Gujarat ATS taking proactive steps to disrupt potential terrorist activities. Maintaining public safety must be the top priority.
The notion of a medical doctor potentially collaborating with ISIS is deeply unsettling. I hope the authorities can get to the bottom of this and ensure justice is served if the allegations prove true.
Agreed. The medical profession is founded on the principles of healing and preserving life. Any breach of that sacred trust is unacceptable.
This news underscores the persistent and evolving nature of the terrorist threat, even as authorities work to counter it. Vigilance and intelligence-gathering are essential to staying ahead of such malicious actors.
While the details are still emerging, the alleged involvement of a medical professional in extremist activities is highly concerning. I hope the investigation can shed more light on the full scope of this potential terrorist network.
Agreed. Any abuse of a position of trust and authority for nefarious purposes is a grave betrayal that must be thoroughly investigated and swiftly addressed.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder that the threat of terrorism remains persistent, even in the face of increased security measures. Vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies are essential.
You’re absolutely right. Complacency is the enemy when it comes to combating extremism. Constant diligence and information-sharing are key to staying ahead of evolving threats.
While the details are still unfolding, the alleged involvement of a doctor in these activities is deeply troubling. The medical profession is founded on the principle of helping people, not harming them. I hope the investigation can uncover the full truth.