In a significant operation on Friday, February 16, the Special Task Force (STF) of Uttar Pradesh successfully thwarted a potential terror attack in Muzaffarnagar. The STF apprehended a youth identified as Javed Shaikh and his associate Majid, averting a major security threat to the region.
The operation, conducted in the Khalapar area of Muzaffarnagar, resulted in the arrest of the suspects and the seizure of four time bombs. Sources within the STF disclosed that the duo was detained in the early hours of the morning on February 16.
According to police officials, Javed and Majid were allegedly involved in manufacturing and distributing similar explosives during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots. The recovered bombs, believed to be part of a larger conspiracy, were found in possession of the suspects, who reportedly admitted to their involvement in the creation of the devices.
During interrogation, Javed revealed that the bombs were crafted under the instructions of a woman named Imrana, who remains at large. Investigations are underway to locate her and ascertain her role in the plot.
The arrest of Javed and Majid followed a tip-off received by the authorities, leading to their apprehension at the Nyajupura bridge of the Kaali River. The timely intervention of the STF and local police prevented a potentially catastrophic incident.
Further details emerged regarding the composition and assembly of the improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Javed confessed to utilising readily available materials such as glucose bottles, iron nails, and watch machinery to construct the bombs. Majid, on the other hand, admitted to manufacturing the gunpowder and IED components.
In a statement, Uttar Pradesh Additional Director General of Police, Amitabh Yash, underscored the seriousness of the situation, emphasising the potential threat posed by the recovered explosives. Both suspects are currently undergoing interrogation by law enforcement agencies, including the Anti-Terrorism Squad and Intelligence Bureau.
Javed, a resident of Mimlana Road, Ramlila Tilla, has a history of repairing radios and comes from a family background familiar with the creation of fireworks. His expertise in machinery, coupled with his previous involvement in similar activities, has raised concerns regarding his potential ties to extremist elements.
The STF remains vigilant as investigations continue to unravel the full extent of the terror plot and apprehend any additional suspects involved in the conspiracy. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies have been instrumental in safeguarding the security and stability of the region.
STF chief Amitabh Yash said, “Two accused were arrested in Muzaffarnagar and four IEDs were recovered from them. All of these could be triggered through a remote control or timer. Those who built these bombs and have been arrested had built similar bombs and distributed them during the Muzaffarnagar riots. Both these accused are being questioned…”
