New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on May 5 said it has chargesheeted three accused persons in an alleged ISIS-linked bio-terror conspiracy aimed at carrying out mass poisoning in public spaces using “ricin”, a highly toxic biological substance derived from castor seeds.
According to the NIA, the accused — Hyderabad-based Dr Syed Ahmed Mohiuddin and co-accused Azad and Mohammad Suhel from Uttar Pradesh — were chargesheeted before the NIA Special Court in Ahmedabad under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Arms Act.
In an official statement, the agency alleged that the accused were operating under the guidance of foreign-based ISIS-linked handlers and were involved in recruiting vulnerable youth for jihad-related activities and terror operations involving prohibited weapons and bioterrorism.
The NIA stated that the accused had allegedly planned to use “ricin”, described as a potent biological toxin naturally found in castor seeds and listed under Schedule 1 of the Chemical Weapons Convention, to execute attacks targeting innocent civilians in public spaces.
The case was initially registered by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) after the arrest of Dr Mohiuddin in November 2025. He was allegedly intercepted at a toll plaza while carrying illegal weapons, four litres of castor oil, and other incriminating materials in his vehicle.
Subsequent investigation by the ATS reportedly led to the arrest of Azad and Mohammad Suhel on the same day. The probe allegedly found that the duo had earlier collected parcels containing money and prohibited weapons from a dead-drop location in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, and delivered them to Chhatral in Gujarat for Mohiuddin.
After taking over the investigation in January 2026, the NIA claimed to have uncovered evidence suggesting that Mohiuddin was promised the role of an ISIS “Amir” for South Asia by his handler. The agency further alleged that he had converted his Hyderabad residence into a clandestine laboratory to prepare ricin from castor seeds.
The NIA also alleged that the other two accused knowingly participated in the conspiracy by remaining in contact with handlers, conducting reconnaissance, handling terror funds, collecting illegal arms and ammunition, and taking oath of allegiance to ISIS.
According to the agency, Mohammad Suhel acted as a key intermediary between the handlers and other accused persons for recruitment, coordination, and movement of weapons consignments. He was also accused of distributing funds, transporting illegal weapons, recording Bay’ah (oath of allegiance), and preparing ISIS flags.
The NIA said investigation in the case is continuing to identify and trace other handlers and persons allegedly linked to the conspiracy.
