The Gujarat ATS has detained five suspects from Siddhpur in Patan district as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged terror network with suspected links to the banned Pakistan-based outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The operation comes days after the ATS arrested eight accused in a separate anti-terror crackdown and amid heightened security ahead of the upcoming Jagannath Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad.
ATS Conducts Multi-Location Raids in Siddhpur
According to preliminary information, ATS teams carried out coordinated searches at several locations across Siddhpur with support from the local police.
One of the raids focused on a cutlery shop in the Jhamplipol area after investigators received inputs regarding the purchase of batteries allegedly linked to a terror suspect. The shop owner was questioned while officials examined transaction records. During the operation, ATS also detained a suspect from Noorani Tailors in the same locality. Overall, five individuals were detained from different parts of Siddhpur for questioning as part of the expanding investigation.
Investigation Linked to Earlier JeM Crackdown
The latest operation follows the Gujarat ATS’s recent arrest of eight individuals from Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for their alleged association with Jaish-e-Mohammed.
According to the ATS, the accused were allegedly in contact with Pakistani handlers and were attempting to establish an active JeM network in Gujarat by recruiting members, translating extremist literature into Gujarati, and spreading the organisation’s ideology. Investigators also recovered JeM-related literature and other incriminating material during the earlier operation.
Security Heightened Before Ahmedabad Rath Yatra
Officials are also examining whether the suspected network had any plans to disrupt major public events, including the 149th Jagannath Rath Yatra scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad.
Security agencies have significantly intensified surveillance across Gujarat, particularly around religious gatherings and public events, to prevent any potential threat. While the ATS has not officially confirmed a direct link between the detained individuals and a specific plot, investigators are examining all possible angles.
Traders and Local Contacts Also Under Verification
As part of the probe, ATS officials are questioning traders and local business owners in Siddhpur to verify purchases and interactions involving the detained suspects. Investigators are analysing digital evidence, financial records, and communication history to determine whether additional individuals may have been involved in the alleged network.
Investigation Continues
The Gujarat ATS has not yet disclosed the identities of the newly detained suspects or released an official statement detailing the outcome of the Siddhpur operation. Officials have stated that questioning is ongoing and further action will depend on evidence collected during the investigation.
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