Operation Mahim: How a Covert Perfume Business Masked Radical Activities

NEW DELHI / MUMBAI: In a major counter-terrorism operation, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a 33-year-old man from Mumbai for his alleged active involvement with the banned terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Operating under the seemingly innocuous cover of a local perfume seller, the accused allegedly used digital channels to propagate extremist ideologies and disseminate violent threats against high-ranking national leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The suspect, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, was apprehended near the Mahim Metro Station following a precise intelligence-led operation. According to senior ATS investigators, Akhtar meticulously maintained his daily routine of selling perfumes to evade suspicion while simultaneously engaging in covert digital operations tied to a Pakistani intelligence handler.

Digital Footprint and Radical Channels

Investigators revealed that Akhtar was an active subscriber to a radical Pakistani Telegram channel identified as "IBN E Qasim." Furthermore, he managed and contributed to a Telegram group named 'Indian Muslim,' where he allegedly shared inflammatory audio clips featuring JeM chief Maulana Masood Azhar, specifically focusing on sensitive historical flashpoints such as the Babri Masjid.

Beyond encrypted messaging applications, the accused maintained a persistent public footprint across prominent social media platforms including X and Instagram. Security agencies recovered 39 distinct screenshots documenting his objectionable digital activity, which included explicit calls for Jihad, such as the statement: “Ab jihad ka zamana agya hai.”

Sinister Threats and Official Charges

The gravity of the investigation escalated when authorities uncovered a direct comment referencing the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in connection with a security breach during a recent visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mumbai. The accused allegedly posted: “Kuch karana tha Indira Gandhi ki tarah PM Modi ko bhi bhai log,” signaling a clear allusion to political assassination.

Following the arrest, ATS teams seized a Redmi Note 14 Pro mobile phone from Akhtar's possession for forensic data extraction. He has been formally charged under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for promoting enmity between different religious groups and committing acts prejudicial to communal harmony.

Neighborhood Shock and Broader Crackdowns

Residents living near Akhtar's rented accommodation in Mahim expressed shock over the developments. Neighbors reported that he had resided in the area for over three years, maintaining a quiet demeanor by day while reportedly working night shifts in addition to his perfume trade.

This arrest comes in the wake of heightened security vigilance across western India. Earlier in July, the Gujarat ATS detained five individuals during a sweeping crackdown targeting an expanding JeM terror module operating in the region. Federal and state agencies continue to probe deeper into Akhtar's wider network and potential local handlers.