Terror: Two Suspects Developed International Network of Sleeper Cells

Visakhapatnam: The two terror suspects being questioned by Vizianagaram police and central agencies have confessed that they developed an international network of sleeper cells spanning mainly India and the Middle East.

The interrogations of Siraj and Sameer at the police training college entered the fourth day on Monday. Multiple agencies including the NIA, the anti-terrorism squad and the Intelligence Bureau are involved in the investigations.

According to police sources, the suspects have revealed critical information about their terrorist activities and organisational structure.

They were allegedly part of a group called "Ahim," which was a front for establishing sleeper cells across multiple Indian states. The operation was reportedly code-named Magic Lantern.

Police have identified two key handlers based in the Middle East, named Abu Musab (also known as Abuthalem) in Saudi Arabia and Imran Akram in Oman. These individuals allegedly played crucial roles in radicalizing and directing the suspects' activities apart from channeling funds.

Siraj reportedly confessed to conducting reconnaissance missions in major cities including Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and the Telugu states, identifying potential targets for bomb attacks in crowded areas.

The investigation has uncovered details about Siraj's path to radicalization. After failing to secure a sub-inspector post twice, Siraj worked at a call center in Hyderabad. There, he came into contact with like-minded individuals from Warangal.

Police sources say Siraj was influenced by online content and became convinced of a perceived threat to Muslims. This led him to form the Ahim group with the stated goal of exposing what he characterized as deception of Muslim women by non-Muslims.

The suspects allegedly used the Signal messaging app for secure communication with their handlers and to coordinate activities. They obtained financial support for purchasing explosive materials through their international connections.

Investigators found that Siraj acquired explosive materials including aluminum, potassium nitrate and sulfur through online purchases and from a local fireworks shop in Vizianagaram. The materials were stored in a bathroom of their group house.

A manhunt is currently on for several other suspects, including Mohiddeen from Warangal, Badhal from Uttar Pradesh and six other accused.

The police are searching for a retired revenue officer from Visakhapatnam who allegedly provided financial support to the duo. Meanwhile, the NIA has shared information with Indian embassies in Saudi Arabia and Oman to trace the activities of the terror network handlers.

Tight security has been ensured at the PTC during the interrogation process. The suspects are being questioned in separate rooms by teams from local police, NIA, and ATS officials.

Interrogation can go on for three more days in their current custody period.

The NIA is likely to transfer the suspects to Hyderabad for further questioning, sources said.