Synopsis: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested two Pakistani ISIS terrorists, Abdullah Fayaz Sheikh and Talha Khan, at Mumbai Airport. Fleeing from Jakarta, they were wanted since 2023 for their role in terror activities.
New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) achieved a major breakthrough in its fight against terrorism by apprehending two Pakistani ISIS operatives at Mumbai Airport on Saturday. Identified as Abdullah Fayaz Sheikh, alias Diaperwala, and Talha Khan, the duo were part of an ISIS sleeper cell involved in terror activities in India. The NIA had been tracking them since 2023 in connection with an IED testing case, marking this arrest as a significant victory in safeguarding national security.
Terrorists on the Run: The two terrorists had been evading capture for over two years, hiding in Jakarta, Indonesia, before attempting to return to India. The NIA, acting on precise intelligence, apprehended them at Mumbai Airport as they tried to re-enter the country. A special NIA court had issued non-bailable warrants against them, and a reward of ₹3 lakh each was announced for their capture. The operatives were allegedly plotting to establish an Islamic state in India through violent means, posing a severe threat to national peace.
ISIS Sleeper Cell Exposed: The arrested terrorists were linked to a larger ISIS network, with eight other members of their cell already in custody. The group conducted bomb-making workshops, including one in Pune during 2022-23, to train operatives for terror attacks. Their objectives included disrupting communal harmony and orchestrating large-scale violence. The NIA has released a list of apprehended cell members, including Mohammad Imran Khan, Mohammad Yunus Saki, and Shahnawaz Alam, highlighting the agency’s relentless efforts to dismantle the terror network.
Conclusion: The NIA’s swift action at Mumbai Airport underscores its commitment to countering terrorism. By apprehending these ISIS operatives, the agency has thwarted potential attacks, ensuring the safety of the nation.
