Guwahati: In a targeted operation, the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police conducted a raid on Moriyapatty Jama Masjid in suburban Guwahati, specifically in the Amingaon area, on April 6th. The mosque is the nearest to IIT Guwahati. This move comes in the wake of the arrest of an IIT Guwahati student, Tauseef Ali Farooqui, who was apprehended on March 23rd while en route to join the proscribed Islamic terrorist organisation ISIS.
The STF operation aimed to investigate potential local links to ISIS, focusing particularly on the involvement of individuals associated with the mosque. Identified as Tauseef Ali Farooqui, the student hails from Batla House area in Delhi and was nabbed by authorities for attempting to join ISIS, prompting heightened scrutiny of local connections. ISIS flag and other objectionable documents were found from Tauseef’s possession.
During the operation, the STF interrogated the Imam of Moriyapatty Jamma Masjid, Gulzar Hussain, a resident of Assam’s Mukalmua. Thorough searches and inquiries were carried out within the premises of the mosque as part of the investigation into possible ties to extremist groups.
Farooqui, facing allegations of association with ISIS, was remanded to the custody of the Special Task Force (STF) Assam for an additional five days on April 3rd. He has been charged under section 10/13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, a stringent law aimed at combating unlawful and terrorist activities.
Notably, Farooqui’s appearance in the court session saw the presence of his parents, indicating the gravity of the charges brought against him. Following the five-day custody extension, Farooqui is expected to undergo further legal proceedings.
The STF’s proactive measures underscore the state’s commitment to thwarting terrorism and extremism, particularly in the context of emerging threats like ISIS. This operation serves as a testament to the diligence of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding public security and upholding the rule of law. It should be mentioned that Tauseef and a few other Muslim students of IITG regularly visited the mosque to offer Namaz. The raid came after the interrogation of Tauseef. Though STF didn’t disclose any details, it is suspected that Tauseef’s indoctrination might have a link with the mosque.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to delve into any potential connections and taking necessary actions to prevent the spread of radical ideologies within the community. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of all residents.
