NIA – Nationwide Searches Target Online Radicalisation Investigation
NIA – The National Investigation Agency conducted coordinated searches in several states on Wednesday as part of an investigation into an alleged online radicalisation network. The case concerns claims that individuals linked to extremist propaganda were attempting to promote violent activity and establish an Islamic state in India, according to the agency.
Raids conducted across nine states and Delhi
NIA teams searched 20 premises in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Searches were also carried out in Delhi, the agency said in an official statement.
The operation is connected to case RC-01/2026/NIA/VSKP, which is being investigated by the NIA following its transfer from local police in Andhra Pradesh.
Digital devices taken for forensic examination
Officials said investigators recovered electronic devices and digital storage material during the searches. The seized items will be examined by forensic specialists to determine whether they contain evidence related to the suspected network, its communications and possible recruitment activity.
The agency said the latest action followed a review of devices collected earlier in the case. Investigators also used technical analysis, contact records and intelligence inputs to identify people and locations believed to be relevant to the inquiry.
Investigation transferred from Vijayawada Police
The case was first registered by Vijayawada Police in March after a search at the residence of Rehmatullah Sharif Mohammad, who has been identified by investigators as a key accused. Police reportedly found material that they said was connected to banned organisations including the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent.
The NIA assumed control of the investigation in May after preliminary findings indicated that the matter could involve people and activities extending beyond one state. The agency is examining possible links within India as well as contacts outside the country.
Twelve people, including a juvenile, held so far
The NIA has arrested 11 people and detained one juvenile in connection with the case. Further legal proceedings will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation and the findings of forensic analysis.
According to the agency, the accused and some of their associates are suspected of trying to influence vulnerable young people through online material. Investigators allege that extremist propaganda, violent content and misleading information were circulated through digital platforms as part of the effort.
Agency examines alleged overseas connections
The investigation has also indicated that some of the accused were allegedly in touch with handlers based abroad. The NIA said it is examining whether those contacts played a role in spreading extremist ideology or supporting activities considered harmful to India’s security interests.
Officials said the inquiry remains active and additional individuals may be identified as evidence is reviewed. The agency is continuing to trace communications, financial and digital links connected to the alleged conspiracy.
The NIA has maintained that the suspected group sought to destabilise the country and advance the idea of a so-called caliphate through violence. The agency said further action will be taken in accordance with the evidence collected during the investigation.