Accused and his girlfriend in the police custody
The First Information Report (FIR) filed by the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) in the alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)-linked terror module case has revealed that the prime accused, Hamim Mondal, was in regular contact with several foreign-based handlers through social media platforms and encrypted messaging applications.
According to the FIR, investigators recovered digital evidence from Mondal’s mobile phones indicating communication with individuals allegedly operating from Pakistan, the United States, the United Kingdom and Mexico. The STF is examining the recovered chats as part of its investigation into what it describes as a cross-border espionage and terror network.
Foreign Numbers and Online Identities Under Scanner
According to the FIR, investigators identified six social media accounts and WhatsApp numbers used by Mondal to communicate with foreign handlers.
Among the contacts were two Pakistan-based phone numbers beginning with the +92 country code, reportedly operated under the names “Rana” and “C9Uzhair.”
The FIR further alleges that another contact using a +1 country code from the United States was operated by an individual identified as “Abid Jutt.”
Investigators also identified contacts linked to phone numbers registered in the United Kingdom and Mexico, reportedly operated under the name “Hamid.”
In addition, police have referred to an Element X account, @ranabhai:matrix.org, which they allege was being operated from Pakistan.
Officials said chats recovered from Mondal’s mobile devices are being analysed to verify the identities of these contacts and establish the extent of the alleged network.
Arrest Followed Investigation Into JeM Links
Hamim Mondal was arrested by the West Bengal STF from Purba Bardhaman district two days ago.
Investigators have found that he was associated with Pakistan-based operatives linked to the banned terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
According to the investigation, Mondal was involved in a conspiracy to create unrest during a protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The allegations remain under investigation.
Police Allege Espionage Network
The FIR alleges that Mondal and his associates were working under the direction of Pakistan-based handlers to establish an espionage network inside India.
According to the document, the network was tasked with recruiting local youths, arranging weapons, collecting intelligence on sensitive installations and high-profile individuals, and carrying out other activities aimed at disrupting public order.
Investigators have found that these activities were intended to threaten India’s sovereignty, integrity and national security.
The allegations contained in the FIR are part of the ongoing investigation and are yet to be tested before a court of law.
Girlfriend Also Arrested
The STF has also arrested Arpita Sarkar, identified as Mondal’s girlfriend, from neighbouring Jharkhand.
According to investigators, the two first met through Instagram and had reportedly been in a relationship for nearly four years before their arrest.
Officials have alleged that Sarkar was also acting under the directions of Pakistan-based handlers associated with the Shahzad Bhatti network.
Kidnapping, Honey Trap Allegations Under Investigation
According to the FIR, investigators have alleged that Mondal and Sarkar had conspired to kidnap the son of a state minister and extort money from the family.
The FIR also alleges that Sarkar had been assigned the task of gaining access to the office of a senior political leader through a honey trap as part of a larger conspiracy.
Police have made these allegations as part of the ongoing investigation. The claims are yet to be established in court.
Radicalisation Through Social Media
The STF has further alleged that Mondal was radicalised through social media before coming into contact with Pakistan-based handlers.
Investigators believe online platforms played a key role in facilitating communication, recruitment and operational planning.
Forensic experts are examining digital devices, recovered chats and online accounts to identify other members of the alleged network and determine whether additional operatives were involved.
Probe Continues
The West Bengal STF continues to investigate the alleged terror module, its foreign connections and possible links with Pakistan-based operatives.
Officials are analysing electronic evidence, financial records and communication logs recovered during the investigation.
Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further arrests or disclosures may follow based on the evidence collected.
