Seven Convicted in Bengaluru Jail Radicalization Case Linked to LeT
Convictions in Bengaluru Jail Radicalization Case
In a significant ruling, a special court has sentenced seven individuals, including T. Nasir, a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), in connection with the radicalization case at Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Jail. Alongside Nasir, the court also imposed a seven-year rigorous imprisonment and a fine of ₹48,000 on co-defendants Syed Suhail Khan, Mohammad Umar, Zahid Tabrez, Syed Mudassir Pasha, Mohammad Faisal Rabbani, and Salman Khan under various sections of the IPC, UA (P) Act, Arms Act, and Explosive Substances Act. The accused had previously admitted to the charges brought against them by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in this case (RC-28/2023/NIA/DLI).
This case revolves around a terrorist conspiracy orchestrated by T. Nasir, which aimed to identify, recruit, train, convert, and radicalize vulnerable youths within the prison to carry out terrorist activities in India.
Related News: Major Action in Manipur Following Tronglaobi Blast, NIA Takes Over Investigation
Initially registered in July 2023 by the Bengaluru Central Crime Branch (CCB), the case emerged after habitual offenders were found in possession of weapons, ammunition, and digital devices. These criminals had plotted to execute terrorist attacks in Bengaluru to further the anti-India agenda of the banned terrorist organization LeT.
The NIA later took over the investigation, uncovering a larger conspiracy aimed at facilitating the escape of T. Nasir, who was a prisoner awaiting trial for the 2008 Bengaluru serial blasts, while being transported to court.
Related News: Manipur Violence: Tensions Rise After Two Killed in Ukhrul, NIA Assigned Investigation
Following an extensive investigation, the NIA filed a charge sheet against 11 arrested individuals and one absconding suspect identified as Junaid Ahmed. Among them, Salman Khan was apprehended after being successfully extradited from the Republic of Rwanda through coordinated efforts between the NIA and relevant Rwandan agencies. Efforts to locate and arrest Junaid Ahmed are ongoing.