NIA Widens Net: 200 People Flagged in White-Collar Terror Module Probe

What began as a modest National Investigation Agency investigation into the Faridabad-based white-collar terror module has grown manifold, with close to 200 persons coming under the scanner after analysis of call records and online transactions related to three main accused. The expanding investigation has shaken the security agencies with the emergence of connections across various socio-economic groups.

Diverse Network Under Scanner

A list of the identified suspects comprises imams from madrasas, local shopkeepers, owners of diagnostic centers, and current and former students and colleagues from Al-Falah University. At least three of the identified suspects—the deceased bomber, Dr. Umar, and the arrested doctors, Muzammil and Shaheen—have systematically made online payments to locals to build support networks.

"The trio had been trying to build a strong network always ready to help anybody in need," said a senior NIA official. Students from the university recall how the accused especially targeted Kashmiri students, by providing accommodation by vacating their rooms and offering them different forms of aids.

Pattern of Building Support

The probe has unraveled a well-orchestrated plan of goodwill cultivation through financial support. Even the accused used online transactions to help the local villagers in Dhauj. "Every single person found connected through a call, message or transaction to them is being probed," confirmed the official.

This approach seems to be designed to create a base of support that could be mobilized when necessary, with the accused positioning themselves as benefactors within this community.

Local Doctor Detained

The latest development involves a local doctor from Dhauj village, reportedly detained after CCTV footage surfaced showing Dr. Umar at his clinic. The doctor operates a small clinic and a medical store near the Al-Falah University campus, where Umar was a regular visitor and often helped with patients.

Investigators believe the medical store could have been used as a contact and coordination point for Umar during his Faridabad stay. Notably, the facility had no CCTV coverage, which may have made it an ideal location for clandestine meetings and exchanges.

Challenges in Investigation

The investigation has widened significantly as each digital trail led to further links. The investigation of backgrounds, transactions, and communications of 200 individuals is a big task for the investigating agencies.

The case reveals how terror operatives are increasingly making use of ostensibly legitimate charitable activities and professional networks as building blocks of infrastructure. They project their presence within communities and institutions, creating ring supportive systems that sometimes cannot be unearthed until substantial evidence is made available.