Assam man arrested in Kerala over alleged extremist social media activity

Kerala Police have arrested a 25-year-old man from Assam for allegedly using social media platforms to promote extremist Islamist ideology and attempt to mobilise youth towards radical views, officials said on Wednesday. This comes amid a broader global rise in Islamist extremism.

The accused, identified as Roshidul Islam , is a native of Assam and was residing for the past nearly two years in the Kaipamangalam area of Thrissur district, where he was working with a private firm. He was arrested on Tuesday from within the limits of the Kaipamangalam police station following surveillance of his online activities, police said.

According to investigators, Roshidul allegedly shared posts on social media that promoted religious hatred, glorified extremist narratives and sought to influence young users by projecting radical ideology as justified. Police said the content indicated an inclination towards violent extremism and attempts to subtly mobilise youth through online platforms.

During preliminary investigations, police claimed that the accused was in contact with certain individuals based outside India, including in Bangladesh, through phone calls and social media applications. Authorities are also examining his suspected links with banned terrorist organisations , though no formal confirmation has been made at this stage.

Officials further alleged that information gathered during the probe suggested that the accused had explored the possibility of procuring AK-47 rifles from Pakistan, a claim that is currently under verification. Police emphasised that the investigation is at an early stage and all aspects are being thoroughly examined.

Police officials said the case highlights the growing role of social media in the spread of radical ideology, where extremist elements allegedly exploit digital platforms to disseminate propaganda, recruit sympathisers and influence vulnerable youth without physical contact.

The government, they noted, has been strengthening monitoring mechanisms and coordination among intelligence agencies to regulate online spaces, curb the misuse of social media for extremist activities and ensure timely intervention through legal and technological measures.