The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted searches at eight locations throughout Bengaluru in connection with an ISIS recruitment case. This operation began early on the morning of July 21, as officials investigated premises allegedly linked to suspects identified in the case.

The searches were initiated following an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The NIA had registered the FIR concerning the alleged recruitment activities tied to the Iqra Welfare Trust, Guidance for Mankind, and other individuals based in the city.

Details of the FIR and Charges

The FIR filed by the NIA involves violations of several sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Specifically, the report outlines alleged infringements of Section 17, which pertains to raising funds for terrorist activities, Section 18, focused on preparatory acts for terrorism, and Section 18B, which deals with the recruitment of individuals for terrorist acts.

As part of the investigation, four individuals have been detained. Subsequent to their arrests, the NIA submitted a chargesheet including the names of Irfan Nasir, Ahamed Abdul Cader, Mohd Tauqir Mahmood, Zuhab Hameed Shakeel Manna, and Mohd Shihab as those allegedly involved. The chargesheet claims that these individuals were part of a criminal conspiracy designed to radicalise Muslim youth in Bengaluru to join ISIS.

The investigation has uncovered that the suspects allegedly organised a ‘personality development’ workshop called ‘Iqra Camp’ and a study circle known as ‘Quran Circle’. These platforms reportedly facilitated the identification and recruitment of young Muslims for the group.

Allegations of Recruitment and Fundraising

According to officials, the accused would raise and channel funds to aid in the illegal travel of recruits to Syria via Turkey to engage in combat against the Syrian government. These actions are characterised in the charges as ‘waging war against Syria, an Asiatic Power allied with the Government of India.’

Additionally, it is alleged that the group sought to take advantage of sentiments surrounding the Anti-CAA/NRC protests to incite divisions between Muslims and non-Muslims, thereby spreading extremist ISIS ideology through secure social media channels.

The accused are believed to have sourced funds from various individuals, trusts, and their personal savings. This financial backing is alleged to have played a vital role in facilitating the illegal passage of young Muslim recruits intending to fight for ISIS.

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