Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a suspect named Mohammad Zafar due to his active linkages with the terror organization Jaish-e-Mohammed. According to the ATS, Zafar used to gather monetary donations under the pretext of funding madrasas and subsequently channeled those funds directly to Pakistan. He is also accused of inciting individuals toward jihad by using propaganda materials associated with Masood Azhar. He frequently distributed provocative speeches and religious lectures of Masood Azhar among people to radicalize them.
Fund Collection Under the Guise of Madrasas
The UP ATS received actionable intelligence indicating that an individual was collecting donations from citizens under the name of madrasas, with the ultimate objective of financing jihad within India. Subsequent verification revealed that the accused was deeply influenced by Maulana Masood Azhar, the chief of the Pakistan-based proscribed terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. He systematically circulated statements of Masood Azhar to instigate violent jihad inside the country. Upon deeper investigation, the ATS found that Zafar originally hailed from Bihar and had previously studied at a madrasa while residing in Meerut.
Desire to Become a Mujahid and Links to Pakistani Handlers
During his student years, Zafar reportedly read about jihad and the martyrdom of mujahideen, which deeply inspired him. During interrogation, Zafar admitted that he wanted to become a mujahid himself under the strong influence of Maulana Masood Azhar. Forensic examination of his mobile phone uncovered several Pakistani jihadi WhatsApp groups where he actively discussed funding operations and jihadist ideology. Operating through a Facebook account with his face concealed, he used to deliver speeches concerning jihad and the caliphate.
Utilizing Binance and USDT for Transfers
Through his engagement in Jaish-e-Mohammed extremist chat groups, Zafar established direct contact with a Pakistani handler and offered to assist their cause. Initially, he attempted to transfer funds directly to a Pakistani bank account provided by the handler, but the transaction failed. Consequently, Zafar requested a Binance account from the handler and utilized Binance to transfer funds multiple times in the form of USDT after connecting with other Pakistani suspects. Zafar confessed to all his crimes during custodial interrogation. He was formally arrested on August 16, and legal proceedings under relevant sections of the BNS and UAPA are currently underway after presenting him before a competent court.
