Suspected ISIS operative arrested from Kushinagar in joint operation by UP ATS, Delhi Police

LUCKNOW: A joint team of UP ATS and Delhi Police arrested a suspected operative linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria from Kushinagar district on Saturday night.

Rizwan, 30, was picked up from Padrauna area following sustained surveillance and intelligence inputs regarding his alleged links with ISIS modules.

According to sources, Rizwan has a history of involvement in terror-related activities. He was arrested by Mumbai Police in 2016 in connection with a terrorism case and remained in jail until 2023. He was then accused of radicalising youth to leave Mumbai and join ISIS. He even played a vital role in radicalising Ayaz Sultan, who left India to join ISIS.

After his release, he returned to his native district Kushinagar and started a food kiosk in Padrauna. Investigators revealed that during this period, Rizwan allegedly re-established contact with ISIS-linked operatives through online platforms and encrypted communication channels. His activities came under the radar of central and state intelligence agencies, prompting coordinated action. Officials said the arrest was carried out discreetly to avoid public panic.

Electronic devices and documents have been seized from him which are now being examined for further leads. Preliminary interrogation suggests that Rizwan may have been attempting to expand his network or assist in recruitment and logistical support for extremist activities. However, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of larger connections, and further questioning is underway.