Mumbai, October 24, 2026: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man from Mumbai’s Mahim area over suspected links with the banned terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The accused, Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, allegedly worked as a Rapido bike-taxi rider and perfume seller while engaging in online activities that investigators say promoted extremist ideology.
Akhtar was apprehended near Mahim Metro station by the ATS’s Kalachowki unit following an intelligence tip-off. The investigation is focusing on his social media activity, alleged connections with Pakistani intelligence operatives and the circulation of material linked to JeM leader Masood Azhar.
The allegations are under investigation, and the accused’s guilt has not been established in court.
ATS Probes Suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed Links
According to investigators, Akhtar allegedly used social media platforms to circulate inflammatory content and promote hostility between communities. The ATS is also examining intelligence inputs suggesting that he was in contact with a Pakistani intelligence operative.
Officials reportedly examined his mobile phone and social media accounts as part of the investigation. The agency is seeking to establish the nature of his alleged contacts, the extent of his online activities and whether other individuals were involved.
The arrest comes amid wider investigations into suspected extremist networks and alleged JeM-linked activities in different parts of India.
Telegram Group Allegedly Shared Masood Azhar Speeches
Investigators allege that Akhtar operated a Telegram group through which audio recordings attributed to JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar were shared on June 1, 2026. The recordings reportedly included speeches concerning the Babri Masjid and other sensitive issues.
The ATS also alleges that Akhtar subscribed to a Pakistan-backed extremist Telegram channel identified as IBN-e-Qasim.
Investigators are examining the material recovered from his phone and the online groups associated with the case to determine whether the activity went beyond sharing content and involved a wider network.
Social Media Posts Under Scrutiny
The investigation also covers comments allegedly posted by Akhtar on Instagram and X between May and October 2026.
According to media reports citing the ATS complaint, one comment referred to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination in connection with a reported security lapse during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mumbai. Other posts allegedly included provocative remarks about religious and political issues.
The ATS has reportedly documented screenshots of the material and seized a mobile phone for further examination. The digital evidence is expected to help investigators verify the posts, establish their origin and trace any relevant communications.
Case Registered Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
A case has been registered under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which addresses promoting enmity between different groups on grounds including religion and language, and acts prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony.
Investigators are also examining the suspected Pakistan connection and whether the available evidence indicates involvement by additional individuals. Any further charges will depend on the findings of the investigation and applicable legal provisions.
Investigation Continues
The Maharashtra ATS is continuing to examine Akhtar’s alleged online activity, communications and connections. Authorities are seeking to determine whether the case is limited to the circulation of extremist material or forms part of a broader network.
The arrest highlights the role digital platforms can play in investigations involving alleged extremist propaganda and suspected cross-border contacts. However, the precise nature of the alleged links and the evidence supporting them remain matters for investigators and the courts.
Further details are expected as investigators analyse the seized digital material and verify the suspected connections.
