Security agencies have expanded their interrogation of 21-year-old Mohammad Hamza following his arrest in Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, on charges related to anti-national activities. The accused has been placed on a three-day police remand, during which investigators have uncovered significant leads regarding his online communication trails and ideological transformation. Originally hailing from Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh, Hamza had come under the surveillance radar of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) due to his suspicious movements, which eventually led to his apprehension. Officials are also examining potential associates connected to him, with further arrests anticipated as the probe progresses.
Interrogation by Joint Intelligence Teams
On Wednesday, specialized personnel from the Intelligence Bureau alongside Military Intelligence (MI) arrived from Delhi to conduct an extensive interrogation of Hamza in Hamirpur. Findings indicate that the young man was following multiple Pakistan-based extremists on the social media platform Instagram. Furthermore, the inquiry revealed his active participation in online forums aligned with the ideology of Osama bin Laden, as well as digital circles titled Alamdar Group, Ghazwa-e-Hind, and United Ummah. Security officials assess that handlers operating across the border systematically influenced his mindset through these specialized digital channels.
The Sketch Alert and Operation by State CID
The arrest materialized after central intelligence agencies alerted the Himachal Pradesh Crime Investigation Department (CID) and provided an official composite sketch of the suspect. When CID operatives initially intercepted Hamza, he attempted to deflect suspicion by claiming that the individual depicted in the sketch was someone else. However, under rigorous questioning by the enforcement team, he conceded his identity and admitted to the circumstances. Investigators believe that prolonged exposure to extreme narratives managed by external operators played a decisive role in altering his mental outlook.
From Tailoring Apprentice to Custody: Investigation Expands to Palampur
Hamza, who completed his formal education up to class eight, had been residing in Hamirpur for the past three years. He initially arrived in the town seeking employment and craft training under a local tailor named Dinesh, who subsequently hired him. Prior to his stay in Hamirpur, he lived with his family in Palampur within Kangra district, where he attended school. Most recently, he was dwelling alongside his family in rented accommodations located in Pratap Gali, Hamirpur. In light of these background details, law enforcement authorities have now widened the investigation footprint to Palampur to examine his earlier connections. The accused is scheduled to be produced before the court again on Thursday, while police leadership currently maintains strict discretion regarding additional operational specifics.
