Gujarat ATS Uncovers AQIS Module: Four Terrorists Arrested, Were Planning Attacks Across India

National News: In a major counter-terrorism breakthrough, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has exposed a module of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). As part of the operation, four suspected terrorists have been arrested. Two were apprehended in Gujarat, one in Delhi, and another in Noida.

Identities of the Arrested Suspects

According to ATS sources, the arrested individuals have been identified as Saifullah Qureshi, Mohammad Fardeen, and Mohammad Faiq. The identity of the fourth accused is being withheld pending further interrogation.

Gujarat ATS arrested four terrorists with links to AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent). A detailed press conference will be held: ATS DIG Sunil Joshi

(Pics: Gujarat ATS) pic.twitter.com/qV3119GztG

— ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025

Terror Attacks Were Being Planned at Key Locations

Initial interrogation has revealed that the suspects were plotting attacks at multiple high-security and sensitive locations across India. Investigators are still trying to determine whether these instructions were issued by handlers based in Pakistan or operating from within India.

Social Media Was Their Communication Channel

Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi stated that all four suspects are young, aged between 20 and 25 years. Despite never meeting in person, they were closely connected via social media platforms, which they used to coordinate plans and exchange information. DIG Joshi confirmed that detailed disclosures will follow in an official press briefing soon.

What is AQIS?

AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent) is a regional affiliate of the global terror group Al-Qaeda. It was founded on September 3, 2014, by Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s successor. AQIS has attempted to expand its presence across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries. Notably, in 2023, four Bangladeshi nationals linked to AQIS were arrested in Ahmedabad for similar activities.

Agencies on High Alert, Plans Thwarted

Thanks to the alertness of ATS and intelligence units, several planned attacks by AQIS and similar groups have been successfully foiled in recent years. However, the increasing use of social media by terror outfits remains a serious concern for national security agencies.