Major Terror Plot Uncovered in West Bengal Targeting Chief Minister

The Special Task Force has arrested a suspected terrorist in West Bengal who allegedly planned to target Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Hamim Mandal, linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, was reportedly instructed to monitor the Chief Minister's movements and infiltrate a protest in Delhi. Alongside him, his girlfriend was arrested for plotting to kidnap a minister's son. The investigation revealed connections to a Pakistani gang and international SIM cards used for covert communications. The court has placed Hamim in police custody as authorities work to dismantle the broader network involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 2, 2026, 13:35 IST

Significant Terrorist Arrest in West Bengal

The Special Task Force (STF) has made a significant revelation regarding a suspected terrorist, Hamim Mandal, affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed, who was apprehended in West Bengal. Authorities reported that Hamim had devised a plan to target Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. He was arrested two days ago in the East Bardhaman district. Police officer Gaurav Sharma stated that Hamim was instructed to monitor the Chief Minister's activities and gather information about locations where the Chief Minister might be without security.

Plan to Infiltrate Protest at Jantar Mantar

According to the STF, handlers based in Pakistan wanted Hamim to infiltrate a student protest organized by the CJP at Jantar Mantar in Delhi while disguised in police uniform. The objective was to create chaos and unrest at the event.

Kidnapping Scheme Involving Minister's Son

In connection with this case, Hamim's girlfriend, Arpita Sarkar, was also arrested in Jharkhand. The duo was allegedly plotting to kidnap the son of state minister Umesh Rai and extort money from his family. Arpita had been gathering information from influential individuals, including politicians, and relaying it to Hamim. Evidence from her WhatsApp chats indicates connections to Pakistan.

International SIM Cards and Links to Pakistani Gang

Authorities discovered international SIM cards from the UK and Mexico in their possession, which are suspected to have been used for covert communications. Investigations revealed that both individuals were operating under the direction of Pakistani handlers associated with the 'Shehzad Bhatti Gang.' This gang is known for inciting violence, recruiting for terrorist networks, and spreading terrorism through drug trafficking.

Connection Established via Social Media

Hamim and Arpita reportedly met four years ago on Instagram. The STF was able to trace Hamim through an investigation of Arpita's social media accounts. Currently, the court has remanded Hamim to 14 days of police custody, and authorities are focused on uncovering the entire network and identifying other individuals involved.