Two ‘JeM terrorists’ arrested in Deoband

Lucknow, February 22

The Uttar Pradesh Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) today arrested two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists from Deoband in Saharanpur where they were said to be on a recruitment drive, posing as students.

DGP OP Singh said both, between 20 and 25 years of age, were from Kashmir. While Shahnawaz Ahmad Teli was from Kulgaam, Aqib Ahmad Malik belonged to Pulwama. 

Singh said Shahnawaz was an active member of the JeM and a grenade expert. The accused were staying in Deoband posing as students though they were not registered for admission anywhere. They had come from Kashmir to recruit youth, the DGP said.

Two .32 bore pistols, 30 live cartridges and some jehadi literature were seized from them.

The operation was headed by IG ATS Asim Arun, who is bringing them to Lucknow on transit remand. DGP Singh said the ATS was looking at their local support base.

Late last night, the ATS had also picked up some people for interrogation, including a shopkeeper and a dozen students. 

Among the students were two from Kashmir and five from Odisha. — TNS