Terror module used online network, gave IED training

Lucknow: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) chargesheet has revealed a detailed modus operandi of the Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent AQIS-linked terror module that was operating from Lucknow. highlighting how radicalisation, recruitment, funding, and terror training were carried out through a mix of online platforms and local networks.

According to NIA, Minhaj Ahmed, an electrical diploma holder running a battery shop in Lucknow, was radicalised around 2017 through online content promoting extremist ideology. His journey into the terror network began after he posted comments on social media related to Kashmir, following which he was contacted by Tauheed Ahmed Shah via Instagram.

The two later shifted to encrypted communication platforms like Telegram, where discussions revolved around sensitive issues and extremist narratives. Tauheed allegedly instigated Minhaj to join “jihad” and introduced him to higher-level operatives, including a handler identified as Adil Nabi Teli alias Musa. who operated using pseudonyms and virtual numbers to avoid detection.

The module functioned through closed Telegram groups such as “Haqaik Ki Duniya,” where members exchanged propaganda, operational instructions, and ideological content. The accused were allegedly administered an oath of allegiance (bayat) to the terror organisation and became part of a structured hierarchy under AQIS and its affiliate Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.

The investigation revealed that The module also engaged in funding activities. Minhaj transferred over Rs 93,000 to a Jammu and Kashmir-based man linked to the network, allegedly as financial support for terror activities. These transactions were carried out discreetly as part of the group’s operational funding mechanism.

One alarming finding was the systematic training imparted for making IEDs. Tauheed allegedly shared a detailed digital manual titled “Explosive Course,” which provided step-by-step instructions on preparing IEDs using commonly available household materials.

Following these instructions, Minhaj procured material chemicals and components and assembled and tested IEDs. Forensic reports later confirmed the presence of explosive substances such as potassium nitrate, potassium chlorate, sulphur, aluminium powder, and charcoal in samples recovered from the accused’s premises.

The module also attempted to procure firearms and ammunition. A .32 bore pistol and live cartridges were recovered from Minhaj’s residence. Digital evidence, including photographs of weapons and communication records, further indicated efforts to build an armed terror capability.

Voice samples and audio clips recovered during the investigation confirmed active coordination between key accused, including Musiruddin and Minhaj. Forensic analysis matched their voices with recorded communications, establishing their direct involvement in the conspiracy, the NIA probe revealed.

NIA also identified Tawheed Ahmad Shah as a crucial link in the Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) module. acting as a recruiter, handler, and facilitator for terror activities.

According to NIA, Tawheed worked as an Over Ground Worker for Syed Basharat Shah, a slain terrorist associated with Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGH), an affiliate of Al-Qaeda. He was also linked to Adil Nabi Teli, a terrorist of The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Investigators found that Tawheed played a pivotal role in radicalising and recruiting members. He allegedly instigated co-accused Minhaj Ahmad to join Al-Qaeda and directed him to further recruit others, including Musiruddin. and obtain their oath (bayat) videos pledging allegiance to the terror group.

The probe found Tawheed coordinated funding channels, receiving money through multiple bank accounts to avoid detection, and facilitated terror financing. He further instructed operatives to procure explosives, prepare IEDs, learn petrol bomb-making, and arrange arms and ammunition, making him a central operational handler in the module.
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