In a major counter-terror breakthrough, intelligence agencies have arrested Mohammed Zakriya (55 yrs), a Pakistani national suspected of running a sleeper cell network in India. Zakriya, allegedly linked to the Pakistan-based terrorist outfit, was apprehended at Chennai International Airport on January 25, while attempting to travel to Sri Lanka.
As per media reports, Zakriya has been heading the Indian operations of a terror outfit and under surveillance for his suspected role in coordinating sleeper cells across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Investigators believe he was heading to Sri Lanka to attend a secret gathering of the terror outfit following the reported death of its leader. His arrest has exposed a deeper web of terror financing, radicalization, and cross-border links.
Pakistani Sleeper Cell Operations in Telangana
Zakriya, originally from Pakistan, has been living in India for 25 years, first in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, before settling in Hanamkonda, Warangal district, Telangana. He ran a food business, Royal Bawarchi Biryani, which authorities suspect was a front for his covert terror operations. He is also involved in Islamic religious conversions in Warangal.
Reports indicate he was in direct contact with Pakistani handlers through encrypted communication channels, coordinating logistical support, financial transfers via hawala, and recruitment efforts targeting local youth.
During a raid on Zakriya’s residence in Warangal, security forces uncovered a cache of explosives, firearms, and multiple fake identification documents, raising serious concerns about planned attacks.
With evidence suggesting a wider sleeper cell network, authorities have issued alert across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. Intelligence agencies, including RAW, IB, and state police, are coordinating efforts to dismantle the suspected terror module.
