Vijayawada terror links busted: 3 arrested for promoting extremism; nationwide network suspected

Vijayawada: Three men were arrested in Vijayawada for allegedly promoting extremist ideology on social media and maintaining suspected links with terror networks, Andhra Pradesh Police said on Tuesday.

The arrests followed intelligence inputs and sustained surveillance of online radical content, with officials indicating the possibility of a wider network operating across the country.

Accused identified while monitoring social media

The arrested individuals have been identified as Mohammad Rahmatulla Sharif (23), Mirza Sohail Baig (23) and Mohammad Danish (27).

Andhra Pradesh Police Counter Intelligence (CI) officials apprehended them on Monday near their residence in the Two Town locality as part of a coordinated operation.

Police said the trio had come under the scanner during monitoring of social media platforms for radical propaganda and suspicious activity.

Sharing radical content online

According to officials, the accused were actively sharing and promoting extremist content online. “Based on intelligence inputs, our teams arrested three individuals. They were found sharing and promoting extremist content on social media platforms,” a police official said.

Investigators are analysing their digital footprint to determine the extent of their involvement and influence.

Links to wider network under probe

Preliminary investigation revealed that the three men were allegedly part of a network comprising around 10 individuals spread across different parts of the country. Police suspect that the group was attempting to influence and radicalise youth through online platforms.

Authorities are now working to establish any direct or indirect links between the accused and banned terrorist organisations, including possible foreign connections.

Detention, searches and seizures

Earlier, acting on a tip-off, Counter Intelligence (CI) sleuths had picked up the accused from the One Town area, where they were reportedly in contact with each other.

Searches were also conducted in the Wynchipeta locality as part of the investigation.

Officials said the trio had developed contacts over time and were engaged in activities that raised serious security concerns.

‘Accused searched for information on explosive materials’

During the probe, investigators found that the accused had allegedly searched online for information related to the preparation and use of explosive materials. This aspect is being examined closely to assess intent and potential threat.

Medical examination, court proceedings next

The accused were shifted to a government hospital in Vijayawada for medical examination following their detention.

Police are expected to produce them before a court for further legal proceedings.

Case registered under UAPA, IT Act

A case has been registered at Kothapet Police Station under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Information Technology Act.

Officials said the investigation is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network, trace additional suspects and verify any cross-border links.

More details are expected to emerge as questioning continues.