The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has undertaken a series of extensive search operations across the country, spanning twenty different locations. These operations encompassed various regions, including Delhi (Fazalpur, Shaheen Bagh, Okhla, and Chandni Chowk), Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal district), Maharashtra (Thane and Mumbai), Rajasthan (Tonk and Gangapur City districts), and Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow, Siddharth Nagar, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Kanpur, and Gorakhpur). In addition, searches were conducted in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. These operations are part of an ongoing investigation into cases associated with the Popular Front of India (PFI) and their alleged involvement in unlawful and anti-national activities.
Substantial Evidence Unearthed
The search operations have yielded a significant cache of crucial evidence linked to the ongoing case. This evidence comprises various digital devices, including laptops, mobile phones, SIM cards, memory cards, pen drives, and hard discs. In addition to these digital findings, incriminating documents were recovered during the operations. Notably, a substantial sum of Indian currency amounting to Rs. 8.5 lakhs was seized in connection with the ongoing case.
Background of the Case
The case was initially recorded as FIR No 827/2022 on July 12, 2022, at Phulwarisharif Police Station, District Patna, Bihar. Following its investigation, the NIA re-registered this case on July 22, 2022 (RC-31/2022/NIA/DLI). The central allegation in this case revolves around the assembly of individuals with suspicious intent in the Phulwarisharif area of Patna.
Incident Leading to the Investigation
On July 11, 2022, at approximately 19:30 hrs, a raid was conducted by the officers of Phulwarisharif Police Station, based on confidential information. This operation targeted the rented residence of Athar Parvez, resulting in the discovery of incriminating materials closely associated with the Popular Front of India (PFI). Among the findings was a document titled “India 2047 Towards Rule of Islam in India, Internal Document: Not for circulation.”
The investigation led to the apprehension of several suspects at the initial stages. The accused in this case, namely Athar Parvej, Md. Jalaluddin Khan, Nooruddin Zangi @ Advocate Nooruddin, and Arman Malick @ Imteyaz Anwer, were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in this matter.
Chargesheets and Accused Persons
To date, NIA has submitted three chargesheets against a total of 13 suspects in this case. During the course of investigations, a total of 17 accused persons have been taken into custody. They are alleged to have been actively involved in furthering the unlawful activities of PFI, including the illicit funneling of funds from overseas to PFI members and suspects in this case.
Anwar Rashid’s Arrest
During the ongoing investigations, the NIA apprehended Anwar Rashid, a former member of the banned organization Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI). Anwar Rashid’s arrest is linked to his involvement in a criminal conspiracy alongside FIR-named suspects Athar Parvej, Manjar Parvej, and others, all working towards advancing the agenda of the Popular Front of India (PFI). Their aim has been the pursuit and establishment of an Islamic Rule in India by the year 2047.
Continued Investigations
The investigation in this case continues to uncover the intricate details of the alleged unlawful activities. As the case unfolds, the NIA is committed to delving deeper into the matters associated with the Popular Front of India and related entities.
