Andhra Police Sweep Across States, 12 More Held for Suspected Terror Links

In a major, intelligence-led crackdown, Andhra Pradesh Police have arrested 12 individuals suspected of having links to extremist networks in a coordinated multi-state operation . Special teams conducted simultaneous actions across Bihar, Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Telangana, and Rajasthan.

In Vijayawada, three suspects Mohammed Rahmatullah Sharif (23), Mirza Sohail Baig (23), and Mohammed Danish (27) were taken into custody from the Two Town area after synchronized raids on their residences. Officials said the arrests followed credible inputs about their alleged role in spreading radical ideology and facilitating activities tied to banned organisations .

According to investigators, the trio had formed a group called “Al Malik Islamic Youth,” reportedly aimed at indoctrinating youth, promoting extremist beliefs, and building a broader terror network across the country. Police allege that the accused were in contact with foreign handlers and operated in alignment with global terror outfits such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS.

Rahmatullah Sharif, a bike taxi driver, is believed to have been influenced by extremist propaganda and actively shared such content on social media. Mohammed Danish, a laser marking professional, allegedly provided online support for these activities, while Mirza Sohail Baig, a restaurant employee, is said to have played a role in expanding the group’s reach.

The probe also revealed connections with individuals in several states through an ISIS-linked online network. Authorities identified suspected associates in Bihar, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, indicating a wider, coordinated structure.

Police said the accused uploaded videos portraying themselves as “mujahideen,” imitated figures like Osama bin Laden, and circulated propaganda promoting extremist narratives, including calls to establish an Islamic state. They also allegedly shared content undermining national security .

Investigators believe the group was planning to travel abroad, including to Pakistan, for terror training and was attempting to influence other youth to do the same in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Police confirmed that further investigation is ongoing to trace additional links and dismantle the broader network through an ongoing investigation .