In a significant counter-terrorism operation, the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) has apprehended a suspected member of the proscribed terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) from the Bardhaman district. The arrested individual, identified as Hamid Mandal, was allegedly involved in a conspiracy to carry out a terrorist attack targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. This development has prompted a high-level investigation into the security threats surrounding the Chief Minister and the presence of extremist cells in the state.
Discovery of the Assassination Conspiracy
The plot was uncovered following the arrest of Hamid Mandal from a residential location in Bardhaman. During the operation, the STF seized several documents and a mobile phone belonging to the suspect. A preliminary examination of the recovered materials and digital evidence suggested that Mandal was actively planning an assault on Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The STF is currently analyzing the communication logs and encrypted data found on the device to determine the full scope of the conspiracy and to identify any potential accomplices involved in the planning or execution phases.
Links to Pulwama Attack Mastermind
Intelligence reports indicate that Hamid Mandal is a close associate of Sajjad Bhat, who was identified as the mastermind behind the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. This connection highlights the serious nature of the threat and suggests that Mandal may have been operating as part of a larger network within West Bengal. The STF is investigating whether Mandal received specific training or instructions from high-ranking JeM leaders to establish a base in the state for carrying out high-profile attacks.
Arrest Details and Stay in Bardhaman
The arrest took place late Thursday night in the Renaissance Township area of Bardhaman, while hamid Mandal had reportedly been residing in a rented flat within the township for approximately 2 to 3 months. During his stay, he maintained a low profile to avoid detection by local authorities. The STF is now questioning the owner of the flat and verifying the identification documents provided by Mandal at the time of renting. The investigation aims to uncover the logistical support system that allowed him to remain undetected in the district for several months.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
Following his capture, Hamid Mandal is scheduled to be produced before a court on Friday. The STF is expected to seek his custody for further interrogation to dismantle his network and identify his contacts across different states. Investigators are also looking into his financial records to trace the source of funding for his activities. The primary goal is to ensure that all elements of the conspiracy are neutralized and to prevent any future security breaches.
Massive Explosives Recovery in Birbhum
In a separate but significant security operation, the police in Birbhum district recovered a massive quantity of illegal explosives. Acting on a secret tip-off, a raid was conducted at a vacant house in the Nalhati area. The seizure included more than 800 KG of ammonium nitrate, over 1200 gelatin sticks, 105 detonators, and 36 detonating fuse coils. While it has not been confirmed if this recovery is directly linked to the arrest of Hamid Mandal, the volume of explosives has raised serious concerns. The police are investigating the intended use and destination of these hazardous materials as part of a broader effort to maintain state security.