During questioning, investigators found that Asaful Malik had allegedly expressed views on social media about atrocities by the Pakistan Army against mosques and people in Pakistan.

Man arrested in Bengaluru over Pak Taliban links, planned to attack Pakistan Army

Bengaluru police arrested a 25-year-old man from West Bengal who allegedly planned an attack on the Pakistan Army with help from a Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) member. Investigators are examining his phone records and travel preparations to determine the scope of the alleged plot.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Bengaluru Police initially detained Malik after receiving intel on his plans
  • Accused expressed anti-Pak Army views on social media
  • He sought help from Pak Taliban member in Afghanistan, planned to travel

A 25-year-old man from West Bengal was arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly planning an attack on the Pakistan Army in association with a member of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), police said.

The accused, identified as Asaful Malik Bin Abed Malik, was detained on August 11 in Bengaluru’s Bommasandra Industrial Area following information about his alleged plans, according to police. The accused worked as a security guard and was residing in Jigani.

During questioning, investigators found that Malik had allegedly expressed views on social media about atrocities by the Pakistan Army against mosques and people in Pakistan. He had also allegedly accused the Pakistan Army of supporting Israel in the Israel-Palestine conflict and not backing Palestinian Muslims, police said.

Police said Malik had allegedly established contact through Facebook with Imran Ahindar, whom they identified as a member of the TTP based in Afghanistan.

According to the police, Malik had sought Ahindar’s assistance to retaliate against the Pakistan Army. He had also allegedly made arrangements to travel to Afghanistan, including obtaining a passport and applying for a visa, but did not eventually travel.

Investigators said they found messages and audio recordings on Malik’s mobile phone that allegedly related to his plans to retaliate against the Pakistan Army. Police said Malik was subsequently arrested, and an investigation is underway.

A case has been registered at Hebbagodi police station under Section 113(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, which deals with conspiracy, attempt, abetment or knowingly facilitating a terrorist act.

Police said further investigation will establish the extent of Malik’s alleged links with the TTP and the details of his purported plan.

- Ends