In a significant move against terror networks, a crucial figure in a Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) terror plot has been found guilty and sentenced by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court in Guwahati, Assam. Md. Kamruj Zaman, also known as Dr Hurairah and Kamaruddin, received multiple sentences, including life imprisonment under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The court also imposed fines and additional imprisonment terms for default.
The case, registered as RC 08/2018/NIA-GUW in Assam’s Hojai district, involved Kamruj Zaman’s scheme to establish a Hizb-ul-Mujahideen module in Assam during 2017-18. The objective was to conduct terrorist activities and instill fear among the public. Investigations revealed Zaman’s recruitment of individuals to expand the banned terror organization’s presence in the Northeast, with a focus on Assam.
Kamruj Zaman, arrested in 2018 after central agencies’ thorough investigation, played an active role in strengthening extremist networks in Assam on behalf of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen. The NIA charge sheet, filed in March 2019, named five accused, including Zaman and others. During the trial, some accused pleaded guilty, while one passed away due to illness. Zaman, a resident of Erakapili village in Hojai district, has been moved to Guwahati Central Jail post-conviction.
Security agencies view this verdict as a significant setback for terror groups aiming to extend their operations in the northeastern region.
