A suspected operative of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) allegedly planned to target West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari and infiltrate the recent student protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar by posing as a police officer, according to the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF).
The accused, Mohammed Hamim Mondal, was arrested from Purba Bardhaman district on Friday and later brought to Kolkata for questioning. Investigators claim preliminary findings indicate that Mondal maintained contact with Pakistan-based handlers and was acting under their directions.
According to STF Inspector General Gaurav Sharma, Mondal was allegedly tasked with monitoring Adhikari’s movements and identifying vulnerable locations where he could potentially be targeted. Officials further alleged that the suspect intended to enter the student protest at Jantar Mantar wearing a police uniform to carry out acts of sabotage.
Honeytrap and kidnapping plot under investigation
The investigation has also uncovered an alleged honeytrap conspiracy. The STF arrested Arpita Sarkar, described as Mondal’s associate, in connection with the case. Officials alleged the duo planned to lure the son of a West Bengal minister into a honeytrap before kidnapping and extorting money from the family.
Investigators believe the alleged conspiracy was directed by Pakistan-based handlers linked to the Shahzad Bhatti network. Authorities are examining whether more individuals were involved in the operation.
Foreign links and encrypted communication
During the investigation, STF officials reportedly recovered international SIM cards issued in the United Kingdom and Mexico. These SIM cards are suspected to have been used for encrypted communication with overseas handlers.
The agency said Mondal allegedly communicated through encrypted platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Element X and Session, after initially establishing contact via Instagram. Investigators identified several alleged handlers using aliases such as Rana, Uzair, Abid Jatt 333 and Hamad, who are believed to be associated with the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti network.
According to the STF, the suspect was allegedly radicalised through social media before establishing links with foreign operatives. The investigation is continuing to determine the full extent of the alleged terror network and identify any additional associates.
