UP ATS arrests two alleged JeM Kashmiri militants in Deoband

SRINAGAR — Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad Friday claimed to have arrested two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad militants from Deoband in Saharanpur district.

Both the alleged JeM militants are Kashmiris and were identified as Shahnawaz Teli son of Ghulam Hassan Teli, resident of Nunemai village of Yaripora in Kulgam district and Aakib Ahmed Malik son of Mohammed Akbar of Thokar Mohalla Chandgam, Tehsil Litter, Pulwama.

According to a police statement, Shahnawaz Teli alias Shahjahan, who is a resident of Kulgam, is an active member of the Jaish-e-Mohammad. Living in Saharanpur at present, he has been accused of being involved in preparing new members for Jaish.

“Aakib Ahmed Malik is a resident of Pulwama and was also trying to prepare militants for the Jaish-e-Mohammed under the guise of the Thina admission in Deoband,” the statement reads.

Pertinently, UP ATS said that some youth are working to recruit militants for JeM under the guise of admission without admission in Deoband.

After investigation was done, Shahnawaz and Aakib Ahmed Malik came as suspects. Taking the episode seriously, IG ATS Asim Arun, Director General of Police was directed to go to Deoband and take operational action.

“On Sunday night, a search was conducted at Shahnawaz’s room in Deoband for investigation and one pistol, 32 bore, 16 live cartridges were recovered while as at Aakib Ahmed Malik’s room, one pistol, 32 bore, 14 live cartridge, besides Jihadi chats, videos and photos were recovered from the phone of both the accused,” the statement said.

Initial inquiry has revealed that both the youth are active members of Jaish-e-Mohammad and were sent to prepare new members. (KNO)