A 19-year-old youth was apprehended in Gangtok, Sikkim, over suspected ties to the banned terror group Islamic State (IS). The arrest followed a collaborative effort between the state police and Delhi Police. The accused, Md. Arju from Nam Nang in Gangtok, was taken into custody by the Sadar Police after intelligence reports indicated the existence of an Instagram group named “GIM (Group of Islamic Members)” used for disseminating extremist content and recruiting for IS.
During a search operation at a residence on Lower MG Marg, Nam Nang Road, police detained six family members for questioning. Various electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, iPads, and pen drives were seized for forensic analysis. Investigators discovered extremist-related content on Md. Arju’s Samsung mobile phone, including applications, chats associated with the GIM group, and discussions on suspected militant financing and contacts in India and Pakistan.
Authorities also recovered records of conversations with ChatGPT, indicating alleged ideological backing for extremist ideologies. While no incriminating evidence was found against the other family members, Md. Kalim, Md. Talim, Md. Arif, Md. Alim, and Md. Ersad, they were released after providing bail bonds. An FIR was lodged against Md. Arju and others on June 13 under relevant laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Information Technology Act.
The investigation, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Mingyur Tempo Nadik, is ongoing to determine the scope of the alleged network, digital communications, and potential ties to extremist groups.
