ISIS-Linked Terror Accused Saquib Nachan Dies in Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital

Saquib Nachan, a man linked to the international terror group Islamic State (ISIS), died at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. He had been in judicial custody at Tihar Jail since 2023 and was shifted to the hospital a few days ago, according to official sources on Saturday.

Earlier in 2002 and 2003, he was convicted for his involvement in the bomb blasts in Mumbai. Over the years, he had gained a reputation as a repeat offender in terror-related crimes.

Held as Key Accused in ISIS Terror Module

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had earlier identified Saquib as one of the key figures in the Delhi-Padgha ISIS terror module. He was said to be operating as the so-called "Amir-e-Hind" for ISIS in India. In June 2024, the NIA filed a chargesheet against him and 16 other individuals involved in terror activities.

The group was accused of recruiting and radicalising youth, raising funds, and planning the construction of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). They were charged under multiple laws, including the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.

Propaganda and Explosives Seized

During its probe, the NIA recovered important materials, including manuals for making explosives and ISIS propaganda content. Magazines such as Voice of Hind, Rumiyah, Khilafat, and Dabiq were found in digital formats. These publications are often used by ISIS to spread their ideology.

Authorities also found that Saquib and his associates were sharing sensitive digital content related to bomb-making techniques with others. This was part of a broader attempt to build terror networks within India.

Terror Plot Aimed at Destabilising India

Investigators believe that the accused had been preparing for possible attacks across the country. Their aim was to spread violence, recruit vulnerable youth, and disrupt India’s democratic and secular values.

With Nachan’s death, the case has lost one of its prime accused, but investigations into the larger terror plot are still ongoing.