Anti-Terror Raids in Thane: 20 Detained Over Suspected SIMI Links
Pune: Software Engineer From Kondhwa Arrested By ATS In Ongoing Investigation
Thane/Mumbai: In a major crackdown on suspected terror networks, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), in coordination with the Thane Rural Police, launched a series of raids in Thane’s Padgha and Borivali areas, detaining around 20 individuals with alleged ties to the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI).
The operations began around midnight on June 1 and continued through June 2, targeting several locations, including the home of Saquib Abdul Hamid Nachan, a former SIMI functionary and convict in the 2002-2003 Mumbai blasts under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA). Authorities recovered mobile phones, sharp weapons, and documents suspected to contain radical content.
According to officials, Nachan and his associates were allegedly trying to radicalize local residents through provocative speeches. Raids were also conducted at the residences of individuals closely linked to him, including Abdul Latif Kaskar, Kaif Nachan, and Shajil Nachan—all of whom reportedly had past associations with SIMI.
The ATS stated that the raids are part of an intensified effort to dismantle extremist networks, especially in the wake of the April 22 terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. An ATS officer noted that Padgha has been under the scanner for emerging as a potential hotspot for radical activity.
Legal action has been initiated against those detained, with investigations now focusing on uncovering the scope of the alleged network and its connections to proscribed outfits. Authorities have urged citizens to report any suspicious activity and help preserve public safety and communal harmony.
