Terror funding: ATS arrests key accused

Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Friday arrested a key accused in an ongoing probe into an alleged terror funding and radicalisation network with international links. Altamash Faridi, 28, a resident of Rajabpur in Amroha district, was attempting to flee to Nepal when he was intercepted, officials said.Earlier, on Nov 7, 2025, the ATS arrested another member, Farhan Nabi Siddiqui, 33, a resident of Hazrat Nizamuddin in New Delhi, from Kasna in Gautam Buddh Nagar district. Siddiqui was alleged to be a co-founder of Istanbul International Pvt Ltd and a central figure in the network.
Investigators revealed that Altamash and Farhan, along with foreign associates, established a digital platform in Turkey to mobilise funds from foreign nationals. The funds—estimated at over Rs 11 crore—were allegedly routed through hawala channels and layered into multiple bank accounts linked to firms such as Istanbul International Pvt Ltd and other entities. A Turkish national, identified as Nasi Torba, is believed to have played a crucial role in introducing Siddiqui to the network around late 2022. Officials said Torba, who is currently absconding, is being tracked. The ATS said funds were received from Turkey and Germany and used to finance activities that could threaten India's sovereignty, unity, and integrity. A portion of the money was allegedly used to acquire land parcels in Amroha and Punjab in the name of madrassas, mosques, and private firms. Investigators also suspect that properties were purchased in Bangladesh and Pakistan. The ATS is also scrutinising nearly eight bank accounts linked to Faridi's family members, including his father and brother. Additionally, the role of some retired Army officers is under investigation for suspected assistance in the funding and propaganda network. Officials said Siddiqui also allegedly provided shelter to foreign nationals without informing local authorities.