Karnataka Police probe suspected terrorist links to Lashkar-e-Taiba

Karnataka Police and central intelligence officials have detained Mamtaz Mallik, a West Bengal native working in Kalaburagi, on suspicion of having links to the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Investigators allege that Mallik used social media platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram, to communicate with individuals associated with extremist networks. Specifically, Mallik was reportedly a member of a WhatsApp group named ‘Imam Mahdi’ and claimed he was added by an individual identified as Jainul Abdin, who is alleged to be an LeT commander based in Pakistan. Police also noted that the suspect followed several Instagram accounts linked to extremist content.

An FIR has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for conspiracy and facilitating terrorist activities. This arrest follows recent investigations in the region, including previous National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrests in Bidar and Davanagere districts involving suspected online contacts with foreign handlers and discussions regarding illegal weapons.