Vijayawada police arrest 3 in online radicalisation case; Foreign links under probe

Vijayawada: In a major crackdown on online radicalisation, Vijayawada City Police have arrested three individuals for their alleged involvement in unlawful and anti-national activities linked to extremist networks operating through digital platforms.

The accused have been identified as Md. Rahamutullah Sharif, Md. Danish, and Mirza Sohail. A case has been registered as Crime No. 98/2026 under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) at II Town Police Station under the NTR Commissionerate.

Disclosing the case details before the media, NTR district in-charge Commissioner of Police Sarvashreshth Tripathi said that the arrests followed credible intelligence inputs, which led to a focused inquiry supported by technical surveillance. Investigations revealed that the accused were operating organised online groups and systematically disseminating extremist content aimed at influencing and recruiting vulnerable individuals.

They were also found to be in contact with foreign-based handlers who allegedly encouraged activities prejudicial to the sovereignty, unity, and security of the nation, he added.

Extremist content and anti- national messaging

Elaborating further, Tripathi said the accused actively circulated digital content, including audio clips, images, and posts promoting extremist ideology. The material reportedly disrespected national symbols and attempted to incite division and hostility among communities.

Preliminary findings suggest that the activities were not isolated but part of a larger, structured network with possible links beyond the local level.

Searches yield electronic evidence

During coordinated searches at multiple locations, police seized mobile phones and other electronic devices, along with incriminating material. He also stated that a detailed forensic analysis is underway to determine the full scope of the network and its operations.

Accused remanded, probe continues

All three accused were produced before a court and have been remanded to judicial custody. The in-charge CP said further investigation is ongoing to identify additional individuals involved and to uncover the broader network behind the operation.

Police advisory to public

Reiterating their commitment to national security, police warned that any activity threatening the sovereignty and integrity of the country will be dealt with strictly as per law.

Citizens, especially youth, have been advised to remain cautious about the content they access and share online, while parents have been urged to monitor their children’s digital activities to prevent exposure to unlawful influences.