Bengaluru: NIA cracks down on terror conspiracy; Police officer among those arrested in Karnataka

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a high-intensity operation against a suspected terror network operating from within the state. What has stunned many is the involvement of a serving police officer, entrusted with upholding the Constitution, now accused of betraying the nation.

The case is linked to the 2008 Bengaluru serial bomb blasts, where nine coordinated explosions rocked the city on July 25, injuring dozens and creating widespread panic. The NIA, which has been quietly pursuing leads in the case over the years, has now intensified its investigation, resulting in a multi-location raid across Bengaluru and Kolar.

Also Read:Bharat Bandh: Will Bengaluru be affected? Here’s why the city remains largely unhindered despite nationwide strike

The NIA raided five locations, including Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru, where T. Naseer, a key accused in the 2008 blasts, is currently lodged. Shockingly, the probe revealed that from within the jail, Naseer was allegedly orchestrating communications and plots with the help of individuals both inside and outside the prison.

Three people have been arrested having connection with the case:

• ASI Chand Pasha, a CAR (City Armed Reserve) police officer who had allegedly shared sensitive information with Naseer and facilitated contact with external operatives.
• Dr. Nagaraj, a prison psychiatrist accused of acting as a messenger.
• Anees Fatima, mother of absconding terror suspect Junaid Ahmed, who is said to have played a key role in passing messages between her son and the jailed militant.

Junaid, believed to be operating from abroad, is accused of coordinating with these individuals to relay instructions and receive updates from T. Naseer. The NIA claims that the network was attempting to revive sleeper cells and execute acts of terror across the country.

During the raids, officials seized digital evidence, cash, gold ornaments, and documents suspected to be linked to the conspiracy. Investigators believe the arrested individuals used their professional roles to mask their involvement and aid the terror plot.