UP Student Arrested for Running ISIS Module, Linked to Pakistani Handlers

In a major counter-terrorism operation, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a student for allegedly operating an ISIS-inspired module and recruiting individuals for extremist activities.

The accused, identified as Harish Ali, is a second-year BDS student from Saharanpur. He was arrested from Moradabad following months of surveillance and intelligence gathering by security agencies.

Alleged Links with International Handlers

According to investigators, the accused was in contact with handlers not only within India but also in Pakistan and other countries. Authorities believe he was part of a wider network aimed at spreading extremist ideology and coordinating activities across borders.

Officials said the accused allegedly worked towards a larger agenda of destabilising democratic governance and promoting an ISIS-style system based on extremist interpretations.

Online Radicalisation and Recruitment

Investigations revealed that Harish Ali was actively using social media and encrypted platforms to spread propaganda and recruit new members.

He reportedly created and managed multiple online groups on platforms such as:

• Instagram

• Discord

• Encrypted messaging apps like Session

To avoid detection, he used fake identities and VPN services, allowing him to operate anonymously.

Through these channels, he allegedly circulated extremist content, including:

• Propaganda videos and audio clips

  

• Digital magazines linked to ISIS

• Content glorifying deceased terrorists

Authorities said these materials were used to influence and radicalise vulnerable individuals.

Recruitment and Module Operations

The ATS stated that the accused was not only consuming extremist content but was actively involved in recruitment and coordination efforts.

He allegedly encouraged individuals to join the network and participate in activities aligned with extremist goals.

Investigators are now examining whether the module had additional members and if any operational plans were in progress.

Arrest After Months of Surveillance

The arrest was made after sustained monitoring of online activities and intelligence inputs received over several months.

Officials tracked the digital footprint of the accused before conducting the operation in Moradabad.

Security agencies are continuing to analyse electronic devices and communication records recovered from the suspect.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are now working to identify other individuals who may have been connected to the module. The investigation is also focused on uncovering the full extent of the network and its international links.

The case highlights growing concerns over online radicalisation, where digital platforms are used to spread extremist ideologies and recruit individuals.

Law enforcement agencies have reiterated the importance of vigilance and monitoring of suspicious online activities to prevent such threats.