Mumbai, October 24, 2026: Maharashtra authorities have arrested a 33-year-old Rapido bike-taxi rider and perfume seller from Mumbai’s Mahim area over alleged links to Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), with investigators claiming that audio clips of JeM chief Masood Azhar and other radical material were found during the probe.
The accused, identified as Mohammad Hasan Abu Sarmad Akhtar, has also come under investigation over suspected communication with a Pakistan-based intelligence operative. Police have stressed that the inquiry is ongoing and the allegations have yet to be established in court.
Accused Arrested in Mumbai’s Mahim
Akhtar was arrested near Mahim Metro station after authorities received intelligence regarding his alleged online activities.
He had reportedly been living in Mumbai for nearly a decade and worked as a Rapido rider while also selling perfumes.
Alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed Links Under Investigation
Investigators are examining whether Akhtar had any direct or indirect connection with Jaish-e-Mohammed.
At this stage, authorities have publicly described the links as suspected, and the investigation is focused on his online activity, digital communications and contacts.
Masood Azhar Audio Clips Allegedly Shared on Telegram
Police allege that Akhtar was associated with a Telegram group in which audio clips attributed to JeM chief Masood Azhar were circulated.
Investigators said two such clips were uploaded to the group on June 1, including material relating to the Babri Masjid issue.
Telegram Group Had Limited Membership
According to investigators, the Telegram group had only a small number of members and Akhtar was allegedly one of its administrators.
Authorities are examining whether the group was used merely to share material or whether it formed part of a broader network.
Suspected Pakistan Contact Being Probed
Police are also investigating intelligence suggesting that Akhtar may have communicated with a Pakistan-based intelligence operative.
Authorities have not yet publicly disclosed the full nature or frequency of the alleged communication, and forensic examination of his devices is continuing.
Phone Seized for Forensic Examination
Akhtar’s mobile phone has been seized as part of the investigation.
Investigators are examining the device for messages, social-media activity, Telegram communications, contacts and other digital records that could help determine whether additional individuals were involved.
Social-Media Comments Also Under Scanner
The case also involves allegedly inflammatory comments posted on social-media platforms.
Police claim that some comments related to sensitive religious and political issues and are examining whether they were intended to promote hostility between communities.
Comment Related to PM Modi Visit Examined
Investigators are also examining a social-media comment allegedly posted by Akhtar on a report concerning a security incident during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mumbai visit.
Authorities have included screenshots and digital records among the material being assessed in the case.
Preliminary Review Produced Mixed Findings
According to one police account, an initial check of some of Akhtar’s Facebook and WhatsApp activity did not reveal objectionable material.
However, investigators said other platforms and Telegram activity contained content that required further examination.
Case Registered Under BNS Section 196(1)
Police have registered a case under Section 196(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with promoting enmity between different groups and acts prejudicial to harmony.
Any additional charges will depend on what investigators establish from the digital evidence and alleged overseas contacts.
Court Sends Accused to Police Custody
Akhtar was produced before a court after his arrest.
The court remanded him to four days of police custody, allowing investigators additional time to question him and examine the alleged communications and digital material.
Probe Expands to Possible Network
Investigators are now trying to determine whether Akhtar acted independently or was connected to other individuals.
Officials are examining his online contacts, Telegram membership and alleged foreign communication to establish whether a wider network existed.
Allegations Yet to Be Proven
The arrest marks the beginning of a criminal investigation rather than a determination of guilt.
The suspected JeM connection, alleged foreign intelligence contact and meaning of the digital content will need to be established through investigation and, if charges are pursued, tested before a court.
Source: The Indian Express, NDTV, News9 Live, Maharashtra ATS reports
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