Lucknow: In a major crackdown on a suspected terror module operating across Uttar Pradesh, agencies have issued a lookout circular against Aaqib, who is currently based in Dubai. Investigations have identified him as a key handler of the network, allegedly responsible for linking operatives within India to foreign handlers and coordinating activities from abroad.
According to sources, the module was exposed just a few days ago, leading to the arrest of multiple accused involved in the network. During interrogation and digital analysis, it emerged that Aaqib played a crucial role in connecting the main accused, Saqib alias “Devil,” with overseas handlers. Following this, Saqib allegedly began expanding the network at the ground level.
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Investigators have found that the network was not confined to a single location but was being systematically expanded across several districts of Uttar Pradesh and extended to major cities including Delhi, Haryana, and Mumbai. Officials suspect that the objective was to rapidly build a wide base of operatives to execute coordinated activities within a short timeframe.
Significant revelations have come from mobile phones and digital devices seized during the investigation. The accused had reportedly created more than a dozen groups on the messaging platform Telegram, through which hundreds of individuals were added. These groups were allegedly used to circulate provocative content, videos, and posts aimed at influencing and radicalizing youth.
Sources indicate that individuals added to these groups were gradually exposed to ideologically driven content and then encouraged to recruit others, forming a chain-based expansion model. This method allowed the network to grow quickly while maintaining a decentralized structure, making detection more challenging.
Commenting on the case, renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said, “In today’s environment, such networks are not limited by geography. Digital platforms are being used extensively to influence and recruit individuals. Social media and encrypted messaging apps have become powerful tools in the hands of such operators.”
He further explained that psychological strategies play a key role in such operations. “Individuals are first engaged and influenced gradually. Over time, they are exposed to content that shapes their thinking and aligns them with the network’s objectives. This is why such modules can expand rapidly within a short period,” he noted.
Investigators believe that Aaqib has been orchestrating the network remotely from Dubai, issuing instructions and maintaining communication with operatives in India. With the issuance of the lookout circular, authorities are now in a position to detain him immediately upon his entry into the country.
Officials also suspect that the network was in the process of planning activities across different regions. However, timely intervention by agencies has reportedly disrupted a potentially larger conspiracy before it could materialize.
At present, interrogation of the arrested accused is ongoing, and fresh leads are being pursued based on the information gathered. Agencies are also examining the profiles of individuals who were part of these Telegram groups or had any form of interaction with the network.
The case highlights the growing misuse of digital platforms in activities that pose serious threats to national security. Experts emphasize that while technological surveillance is essential, public awareness and vigilance are equally important to counter such evolving risks.
With the scope of the investigation expanding, more revelations are expected in the coming days. Authorities are working to identify every layer of the network and dismantle it completely, ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice.
