West Bengal Police's Special Task Force (STF) has made a significant breakthrough in its investigation into a suspected Jaish-linked terror module, arresting a woman named Arpita Sarkar from Sahibganj in Jharkhand. Her name surfaced in connection with the case of suspected terrorist Hameem Mandal.
Who is Arpita Sarkar and what is she accused of
According to investigating agencies, Arpita Sarkar was in constant contact with Hameem Mandal. She is accused of working for an organised network that allegedly used honeytraps to target influential and prominent individuals. Reports indicate the same network is accused of plotting to trap senior leaders in West Bengal through honeytraps.
Leads from Hameem Mandal's interrogation
Hameem Mandal, the suspect at the centre of the case, was earlier arrested from Bardhaman. It was the inputs and technical evidence gathered during his interrogation that led the STF to Arpita Sarkar. Acting on these leads, the team traced her to Sahibganj and took her into custody.
Possible ISI connection under investigation
Reports suggest the probe has also been intensified into a possible ISI connection linked to the case. Agencies are now working to establish how many states this network's links extend to, and who else, besides Arpita Sarkar, may be involved in it.
What happens next
Interrogation of Arpita Sarkar is still ongoing. Agencies are closely examining her mobile phone, digital devices and contacts. Officials believe the questioning could lead to several more significant revelations linked to this alleged network.
