Kolkata, 11 December (H.S.) :

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday carried out extensive raids across multiple states, including Kolkata, as part of its investigation into the ISIS-linked Padgha module. The operation focused on individuals accused of promoting extremist activities, procuring weapons and raising funds for terror-related operations.

The searches began early in the morning at residential and commercial locations in Padgha–Borivali in Maharashtra’s Thane district, Ratnagiri, Delhi, several cities in Uttar Pradesh and Kolkata. Maharashtra ATS provided security support during the raids in Mumbai, while central forces were deployed in Kolkata.

The ED’s investigation is based on a case registered last year by the National Investigation Agency. According to the NIA, a group of individuals allegedly inspired by ISIS ideology were involved in radicalising youth, preparing them for violent activities, gathering weapons and explosives and arranging funds.

The NIA has already filed a chargesheet naming 21 accused, alleging a conspiracy to incite violence and disrupt the democratic environment of the country. Investigations revealed that the group had allegedly identified Padgha village in Thane as their base, renaming it ‘Al-Sham’ to attract and indoctrinate young recruits.

Officials also stated that the accused were connected to Shahenawaz Alam, previously arrested in another terror case. The wider network was reportedly overseen by Saquib Abdul Hameed Nachan, who died in Delhi earlier this year in June.

Information shared by the Maharashtra ATS further indicated that proceeds from illegal khair wood smuggling were being channelled into radical activities.

The probe is continuing, with the ED examining documents and digital evidence seized from various locations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh