Gujarat ATS Cracks Down on Jaish-e-Mohammed Sleeper Cell, Arrests Five More Operatives and Foils Time Bomb Plot

The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has achieved another significant success in its ongoing operation against a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) module. In the latest development, five more suspected operatives linked to the banned Pakistan-based terror group were arrested from various parts of the state. These arrests have helped foil a plot involving the assembly of a time bomb.

One of the arrested individuals reportedly possessed advanced knowledge of explosives and was on the verge of constructing a functional time bomb. Acting swiftly on operational intelligence, the ATS team prevented the device from being completed, thereby averting a potential threat.

The accused were heavily involved in testing improvised explosive devices. | NDTV

Explosives Testing and Evidence Recovery

Investigations have shown that the accused were actively involved in testing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The group had earlier attempted a crude time bomb test, which did not succeed. The ATS is currently conducting extensive searches to recover additional bomb-making materials, technical manuals, and radical literature, including Urdu jihadi texts.

The five new suspects were identified during the interrogation of previously arrested members of the same network. They have been remanded to police custody for further questioning by central and state intelligence agencies.

Multi-Phase Crackdown Reaches 18 Arrests

This operation marks the third wave of arrests in the case, bringing the total number of detained individuals to 18. The initial breakthrough came through coordinated midnight raids across several districts in Gujarat, including Banaskantha, Patan, and Navsari, as well as Dewas in Madhya Pradesh.

The module, operating under the name “Darul Islam Gujarat Jaish-e-Mohammed,” allegedly maintained direct contact with handlers in Pakistan named Abdullah and Mohammad Umar. The group was reportedly involved in recruiting local youth, raising funds, and laying the groundwork for potential terror activities. Authorities seized over 250 radicalised digital files, translated jihadi materials, and other incriminating evidence during the raids.

Financial trails revealed that the accused received around ₹3 lakh from their handlers, part of which was used to purchase a second-hand car. Some of the arrested individuals were associated with madrasas and educational institutions.

Ongoing Investigation and Broader Implications

The Gujarat ATS, in collaboration with national agencies, continues to map the full extent of the network, including financial pathways, potential weapon caches, and any remaining operatives. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and other applicable provisions.

This multi-phase operation highlights the proactive approach of security forces in dismantling terror modules and preventing threats to internal security. It also underscores the challenges posed by cross-border influences attempting to exploit vulnerable sections for extremist activities.

The MGMM Outlook 

The Gujarat ATS operation reflects the growing effectiveness of India's intelligence and counter-terrorism agencies in identifying and dismantling terror networks before they can execute deadly attacks. Preventing the assembly of a time bomb and uncovering a wider Jaish-e-Mohammed sleeper cell demonstrates the importance of sustained surveillance, coordinated intelligence sharing, and swift law enforcement action. Such operations play a crucial role in safeguarding civilians while sending a strong message that terror networks and their supporters will face firm action under the law.

The investigation also highlights the continuing challenge posed by Pakistan-backed extremist organisations attempting to recruit individuals, spread radical propaganda, and establish sleeper cells within India. The recovery of radical material, financial links, and evidence of organised recruitment underlines the need for constant vigilance, stronger counter-radicalisation efforts, and close coordination between state and central agencies. Maintaining this proactive security approach remains essential to protecting India's internal stability and preventing future terror threats.

(Sources: NDTV, Firstpost)