Mumbai: A day after extensive search operations at 22 locations in Thane, targeting suspected radical elements allegedly related to the Pahalgam terror attack, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has unearthed an alleged sleeper cell in Padgha, Borivali. Officials said preliminary findings suggest the group was planning subversive acts under the pretext of establishing an alternative religious governance system.
Sources revealed that the investigation began after specific intelligence inputs about an alleged network linked to the family of Saquib Nachan, a former office-bearer of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and a prime accused in the ISIS Maharashtra terror module case for which he was arrested in 2023.The ATS investigation revealed that his family members, associates, close friends and several new recruits were part of the emerging terror module.
According to sources Nachan had allegedly appointed a few lieutenants with a contingency plan to ensure the module's survival in case of his arrest or killed, they would take over command to continue setting up what officials describe as a “radical module.”
A senior ATS official, speaking to FPJ on condition of anonymity, said, “We have evidence suggesting that the group had divided responsibilities among various individuals, assigning them ministerial-style positions to make their village an independent state. Their goal was to establish a parallel governance structure guided by their interpretation of Sharia law.”
Investigation revealed that around 15 local youths had been recruited and given specific portfolios to run what they internally referred to as a ‘Shariyat-e-Al-Sham’ administration entirely separate from and unrecognizing of the Indian Constitution.and operated entirely independently.
Sources also revealed that inflammatory speeches were allegedly delivered by members of the radical group, including a close associate of Nachan's family, in which they reportedly declared that the Padgha region does not belong to India. These speeches were allegedly circulated on encrypted social media platforms, which are now under scrutiny.
Of particular interest to investigating agencies is the recent travel history of several individuals from Borivali who had reportedly visited Turkey, a country seen by global intelligence agencies as a transit point for those seeking to join jihadist groups. The ATS is now probing their travel patterns and alleged contacts with ISIS operatives abroad. Intelligence inputs suggest that these individuals may have interacted with high-ranking members of global extremist organisations during their stay.
“The group is suspected to have used private messaging platforms to stay in touch with foreign handlers and to disseminate radical content,” the official said.
During the raid, the ATS seized 19 mobile phones from the premises, which are currently undergoing forensic analysis. Investigators are examining digital communications for evidence of coordination with international extremist groups. As of now, no formal arrests have been made. However, officials confirmed that several persons have been questioned and further action will depend on the results of the digital forensic analysis and interrogation.
The case has raised serious concerns about potential efforts to replicate foreign jihadist models within Indian territory. Central intelligence agencies have been brought in to conduct deeper analyses of international linkages and funding channels.
