Davanagere: A shocking terror conspiracy with alleged links to Pakistan-based extremist networks has come to light following the arrest of a 20-year-old suspect from Harihar in Karnataka’s Davanagere district. Investigators probing the case claim the accused, identified as Suhail, revealed during interrogation that he harboured intentions of carrying out a bomb attack on the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, one of the most revered religious sites for Hindus.
The arrest has triggered a multi-agency investigation involving Karnataka Police and central intelligence agencies, raising concerns about the growing use of social media platforms by extremist groups to recruit and radicalise vulnerable youth across the country.
Factory worker by day, suspected radical operative by night
According to police officials, Suhail, a native of Uttar Pradesh, had been working as a painter in a private factory located in the industrial area near Harihar. Investigators believe he deliberately adopted the identity of an ordinary labourer to avoid suspicion while allegedly maintaining contact with individuals linked to extremist networks.
He had reportedly arrived in the region around 15 days ago and was residing in a rented house in a nearby village. Acting on intelligence inputs and suspicious activity, police detained him for questioning. What initially appeared to be a routine verification soon turned into a major counter-terror investigation.
Mobile phone reveals alleged Pakistan links
Police sources said a forensic examination of Suhail’s mobile phone uncovered several alarming digital footprints. Among them was a contact allegedly saved under the name “Rana Boy,” linked to a Pakistan country code number.
Investigators suspect that the contact may have connections to handlers operating from across the border. Authorities are now analysing chat records, voice messages, social media interactions and deleted data to determine the extent of the alleged network.
Officials believe the digital evidence could provide crucial leads regarding recruitment methods, communication channels and the broader objectives of the group.
Presence in secret online groups raises alarm
During the investigation, authorities reportedly discovered Suhail’s participation in multiple online groups suspected of promoting extremist ideology. Among the groups under scrutiny are “MEMON & JUTTU-333” and “RANABHAI 333.”
Police sources claim these groups were used to circulate radical content, glorify violence and maintain communication among members spread across different locations.
The accused’s mobile gallery allegedly contained several photographs showing him posing with weapons in a manner similar to extremist propaganda material. Investigators are attempting to determine whether the weapons were genuine and whether the photographs were linked to any organised radical activity.
Alleged plan targeting Ram Mandir
The most sensational claim emerging from the investigation is Suhail’s alleged statement expressing a desire to target the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Investigators are treating the claim with utmost seriousness, though officials have cautioned that the full extent of the alleged conspiracy is still being verified. Authorities are examining whether the suspect possessed the capability, resources or network required to execute such an attack.
Security agencies are also exploring whether other individuals may have been involved in planning or facilitating any potential operation.
Links to wider extremist network under probe
Police officials believe the case may be connected to a broader radicalisation network operating through encrypted messaging platforms and social media channels.
The arrest follows recent investigations into other suspects from Karnataka allegedly linked to Pakistan-based operatives. Intelligence agencies are now examining whether there are common handlers, communication patterns or recruitment strategies connecting the cases.
Officials suspect attempts were being made to identify, influence and recruit young individuals through online platforms before drawing them into anti-national activities.
Handed over for further interrogation
Following preliminary questioning in Davanagere, Suhail was transferred under tight security to Tumakuru for detailed interrogation. Teams from Davanagere Police, Tumakuru Police and central intelligence agencies are jointly investigating the matter.
Authorities hope further questioning and digital forensic analysis will reveal additional information about the alleged network, possible associates and any future plans that may have been under consideration.
Major operation credited with averting potential threat
Senior police officers stated that timely intelligence gathering and coordinated action helped prevent what could have evolved into a serious security threat.
The operation was carried out under the supervision of Davanagere Superintendent of Police Dr HT Shekar, with assistance from Davanagere Rural Sub-Division DySP Basavaraj, central intelligence personnel and officers from the district crime unit.
Investigators have emphasised that the case remains under active investigation. While several disturbing allegations have surfaced during questioning, authorities are continuing to verify the evidence and establish the exact nature and scale of the suspected terror plot.
