Investigation Intensifies into Bijnor Arson Incident Linked to Terrorism
Renewed Investigations into Bijnor Incident
Lucknow: Following the incident on March 4, where a pickup truck was set ablaze and the footage was shared on Telegram, investigative agencies have ramped up their efforts to uncover the details. After the arrest of four suspected terrorists in Lucknow on Friday, authorities have been directed to monitor suspicious individuals across all districts, particularly in light of similar incidents in Bijnor. Multiple groups are reportedly active in this context.
Sources indicate that the video of the burning pickup reached handler Abubakar, who is based in Pakistan, via Telegram. He expressed his displeasure, deeming the incident trivial and urged for a more significant act to receive financial support. Since the Bijnor incident, investigative agencies have been on high alert, and inquiries have been made with Abu Zar, a key figure in the case. Despite the religious symbols observed during the incident, no financial compensation was provided to Abu Zar.
Abu Zar was part of a Telegram group consisting of only five members, three of whom have been apprehended. Although Abubakar was also linked to the group, his number and location remain untraceable by the police. The search for the group's admin, Syed, is ongoing. Investigators are focusing on groups connected to suspected terrorists on Telegram and other social media platforms, through which the Pakistani handler Abubakar is believed to be involved.
Plans for Arson at Multiple Car Showrooms in NCR
Abu Bakar and his associates were reportedly plotting to instigate terror across the country. He had shared coordinates of various locations in Delhi-NCR and western UP with a contact named Saqib for reconnaissance and to execute arson at car showrooms. Two of these showrooms are reportedly located in Meerut. This information was revealed during the examination of the suspects' mobile devices. The investigation is ongoing, with Abu Bakar having assigned Saqib and his team to operate like sleeper cells, orchestrating various acts covertly.
Details of the Conspiracy, Including Trips to Delhi
Initial findings from the ATS indicate that the suspects were mapping sensitive locations under the direction of their handler in Pakistan. The group was also attempting to create incendiary devices and was planning a series of bombings. They had made several trips to Delhi, where they conducted reconnaissance of important offices, VVIP areas, and other sensitive sites. Further questioning regarding these activities is anticipated.