Chhattisgarh ATS Busts Online ISIS Module, Arrests Two Teens In Raipur

The Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested two boys in Raipur for their suspected links to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma announced. He said the duo was detained following a detailed investigation, which revealed they were operating under the guidance of ISIS handlers in Pakistan and using fake social media IDs to remain active online.

“They were themselves influenced by extremist content, and were attempting to influence others on Instagram. They had access to considerable information and were extensively using the internet and social media under the ISIS name,” Vijay Sharma said on Tuesday.

ALSO READ: Al-Falah University Used Fake Accreditation Claims To Enrol Students, Rs 415 Crore Scam Uncovered In ED Probe

They have been charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. Sharma noted that this is the first incident of its kind in Chhattisgarh, and investigators are now looking into whether others may be involved. He urged the public to promptly report any social media account sharing anti-national material.

“By expanding the ATS team, especially in Raipur and other major cities of Chhattisgarh and throughout the state, such individuals will be identified and action will be taken against them. I will also request the Chief Minister (Vishnu Deo Sai) to further expand the ATS team,” he said.

Police officials said the ATS tracked down and detained the two minors suspected of operating online on behalf of ISIS. The investigation revealed that a Pakistan-based ISIS network had been using fake and misleading social media profiles to undermine India’s security and influence young users through cyberspace.

According to officials, these handlers targeted Indian teenagers through Instagram, attempting to radicalise them, encourage anti-India activities, and spread extremist ideology. The minors were added to encrypted group chats, where they were gradually indoctrinated and instructed to share ISIS propaganda and violent material.

ALSO READ: Delhi Red Fort Blast Aftermath: Railway Station Security Tightened In UP; GRP & RPF On High Alert

Evidence also suggests they were being pushed to set up an ISIS-linked network within Chhattisgarh. Continuous digital monitoring by the ATS and partner agencies eventually led to their identification and detention, with action taken based on strong technical evidence, officials added.

(With PTI Inputs)