
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested five more individuals from Patan district, widening its crackdown on an alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror module. With these arrests, the total number of accused in the case has climbed to 13.
According to officials, the arrested suspects underwent specialised training in Jammu and Kashmir. The training reportedly included handling toxic gases and testing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Sources indicate the module was planning attacks in Gujarat and other parts of the country. The Gujarat ATS has been conducting raids and interrogations to unravel the full extent of the network.
The five new arrests were made from various locations in Patan district. The ATS has not yet disclosed the identities of all the accused, but confirmed they are linked to the JeM module that was uncovered in initial investigations.
Earlier this year, the ATS had arrested several other suspects in connection with the same case. The agency believes the module was in an advanced stage of planning.
During the searches, the ATS recovered materials suspected to be used in bomb-making and other incriminating documents. Forensic analysis is underway to determine the nature of the chemicals seized.
Investigators are also probing possible links between the arrested individuals and handlers across the border. The module is suspected to have been activated recently, prompting the ATS to intensify its operations.
The Gujarat ATS is working with central security agencies to track down any remaining operatives. Officials have not ruled out further arrests as the probe progresses.
The arrests highlight the continuing challenge of cross-border terror networks operating within India. Security forces remain on alert for any retaliatory actions or attempts to revive the module.
The accused are likely to be produced in court soon, where the ATS will seek remand for further interrogation. The agency is also trying to establish the source of funding and logistical support for the module.
As the investigation deepens, authorities are expected to share more details about the training camps and the specific targets that were being scouted. The case has once again brought focus on the use of Jammu and Kashmir as a training ground by Pakistan-based terror groups.