The Tumakuru police in Karnataka disclosed that an investigation into an alleged terror-related social media network revealed instructions from a Pakistan-based handler. The handler, known as Rana, reportedly radicalized individuals through platforms like Instagram, urging them to form a larger group of 50 to 60 members. Financial support was promised to the recruits for their activities, as per police statements.
The handler’s aim, as per police sources, was to establish an organized network in India by leveraging socially connected youths who could be influenced online. The directive to recruit more members and the pledge of financial aid are now pivotal aspects of the ongoing probe. Two youths, Allabakash and Zameer Khan, were arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for their alleged links with the Pakistan-based individual through social media.
The arrested individuals, initially engaged in small jobs, reportedly came into contact with Rana through Instagram. The conversations, which began with religious content, later shifted towards discussions on unity, retaliation, and mobilization. Rana allegedly referenced past incidents, emotionally influencing the accused by framing narratives around community grievances and encouraging group-based coordination.
Authorities are expanding the investigation to ascertain if more individuals were targeted or recruited as part of the alleged network. Digital evidence from mobile phones and social media accounts is being scrutinized to trace the communication chain’s full extent. The probe aims to determine if the instructions to form a 50-60 member group were part of a broader coordinated plan and if similar recruitment attempts occurred elsewhere in the country.
