The accused, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, was arrested near Mahim Metro station by the ATS’s Kalachowki unit following a tip-off; he allegedly circulated extremist content on social media and attempted to create communal tensions.
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The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man in Mumbai over suspected links with the banned terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
The accused, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, was arrested near Mahim Metro station by the ATS’s Kalachowki unit following a tip-off; he allegedly circulated extremist content on social media and attempted to create communal tensions.
Suspect Worked as Rapido Rider and Perfume Seller
The ATS said Akhtar worked as a Rapido rider and also sold perfumes. Preliminary investigations reportedly indicated that he was in direct contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives. Investigators are examining digital evidence to establish the nature and extent of his alleged activities.
Telegram Group Allegedly Shared Masood Azhar Speeches
According to the ATS, Akhtar allegedly operated a Telegram group through which inflammatory audio speeches by Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar were uploaded on June 1, 2026.
The agency also alleged that he subscribed to a Pakistan-backed extremist Telegram channel called IBN-e-Qasim. Investigators are analysing the material shared through these platforms to determine whether it was linked to a wider network.
ATS Examines Social Media Activity and Phone Data
The agency further claimed that Akhtar had posted an Instagram comment on a report concerning a security lapse during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mumbai.
His mobile phone allegedly contained anti-national material, the ATS said. Investigators are now examining the device and his online activity to identify possible associates and establish the extent of his suspected connections.
The allegations are part of an ongoing investigation. The claims against Akhtar have not been established in court, and further details may emerge as the probe progresses.