Ahmedabad

The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad has arrested two men accused of plotting anti-national activities and attempting to radicalise individuals through social media, officials said on Tuesday.

According to investigators, the suspects allegedly aimed to build a terror network and recruit youths online. Authorities claim the group discussed violent activities, including the use of explosives, and potential attacks on selected targets.

The ATS said it had been monitoring suspicious online activities through technical surveillance and intelligence gathering when it received information about Irfan Kalekhan Pathan, a 22-year-old resident of Siddhpur.

After detaining him for questioning, officers reportedly examined his mobile phone and found alleged links with extremist individuals and groups through platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram. Investigators claim he was involved in spreading radical propaganda and attempting to form a wider network.

Police further alleged that Pathan was planning to recruit members from different states and arrange training related to weapons and explosives. They also claimed he had discussed raising funds and establishing foreign links for illegal activities.

Based on the findings, the ATS registered a case under sections related to criminal conspiracy and waging war against the government under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

During the probe, investigators identified a second suspect, Murshid Zahid Akhtar Sheikh, a 21-year-old resident of Sakinaka. With assistance from Maharashtra Police, he was detained and later arrested. Officials said material recovered from his phone allegedly linked him to the conspiracy.

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A local court has remanded both accused to 11 days of ATS custody. Authorities said further investigations are underway to identify any additional individuals connected to the alleged plot.