Meerut: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and J&K police have launched a manhunt for Mohammed Ujaid Qureshi, a suspected Islamic terrorist from Meerut, allegedly linked to an Al-Qaeda-inspired terror network.
Investigators discovered a WhatsApp group in which members discussed Fedayeen (suicide) attacks targeting Indian security forces. Earlier, police had arrested one group member in J&K. Following this, authorities intensified their probe as the group’s messages revealed plans to attack security personnel and carry out other anti-national activities.
During the investigation, Qureshi, a resident of Meerut’s Baniyapada locality, was identified as an active participant in the WhatsApp group. In a joint operation on January 18 by the UP ATS and J&K police, Qureshi was initially arrested but went absconding after noticing a police notice at his residence. Reports indicate that he first came into contact with jihadist elements in November 2024.
Qureshi’s two brothers were briefly detained by the ATS for questioning but later released. Authorities suspect Qureshi is part of a terrorist sleeper cell and is skilled in radicalizing youths. His father works as a fruit commission agent, importing fruits from J&K and selling them in Meerut’s wholesale markets.
