Full Breakdown
Mahim Resident Arrested Over Alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed Links
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Arrest and Charges
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) Kalachowki unit detained 33-year-old Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar near Mahim Metro station. He was taken to Mahim police station, where a FIR was lodged under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for allegedly promoting enmity between religious communities.
Background & Context
Jaish-e-Mohammed is a Pakistan-based militant group banned in India. Section 196(1) of the BNS criminalises actions that foster communal hatred. The ATS has been intensifying scrutiny of online extremist content after several high-profile incidents in Maharashtra.
Timeline
- October 21 – ATS received intelligence that a Mahim resident was in contact with a Pakistani intelligence operative.
- May 4 – October 18 – Mobile-phone analysis showed objectionable posts on X and Instagram.
- June 1, 2026 – Akhtar uploaded audio speeches of JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar to a Telegram group he operated.
- October 24, 2026 – The ATS executed the arrest; Akhtar was produced before a Mahim court and remanded for four days.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
The ATS said Akhtar used his work as a Rapido bike-taxi driver and perfume seller as a cover while disseminating radical content online. An initial ATS claim of “direct contact” with Pakistani operatives was later qualified by Maharashtra police, which found no concrete evidence of a Pakistan-based link and described him as acting alone. The case remains registered under BNS Section 196(1); forensic examination of the phone is pending.
On-the-Ground Reports
A neighbour who lived with Akhtar for three years told IANS that he appeared ordinary, selling perfume by day and riding at night. The neighbour expressed surprise at the allegations but said anyone betraying the nation must face punishment.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Age discrepancy: Hindustan Times listed the accused as 32, while eight other outlets reported 33.
- Name spelling: Variants include Mohammad Hassan Abu Sarmad Akhtar and Mohammed Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar.
- Pakistan link: Initial ATS claims suggested direct contact with Pakistani intelligence, yet later statements indicated no definitive evidence, portraying the suspect as a lone actor.
- Extent of network: The investigation is probing possible connections to others, but no further arrests have been confirmed.
Why It Matters
The case highlights authorities’ focus on curbing online radicalisation that could inflame communal tensions. By invoking BNS Section 196(1), police signal a willingness to prosecute speech deemed to foster enmity, even without a formal terrorist-organization link. Pending forensic analysis may determine whether additional charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) will be applied.