The investigation into the arrest of alleged terror suspect Hamim Mondal has taken a new turn, with the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) claiming that the accused was in contact with Pakistan-based handlers and was assigned multiple tasks, including infiltrating a student protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and gathering intelligence on the movements of a senior political leader.
According to the STF, Mondal was arrested from Purba Bardhaman district following intelligence inputs linking him to the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Investigators say the probe is still underway, and several digital and financial leads are being examined.
Social Media Activity Led Investigators to Key Evidence
Officials said the investigation gained momentum after examining Mondal’s mobile phone, social media accounts, and digital communications. These findings reportedly helped investigators identify additional suspects and establish links with individuals believed to be operating from outside India.
The STF has not disclosed complete details of the digital evidence but stated that electronic devices recovered during the investigation are undergoing forensic analysis.
Alleged Plan to Infiltrate Jantar Mantar Protest
According to STF officials, Mondal was allegedly instructed by Pakistan-based handlers to enter the recent student protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi while wearing a police uniform. Investigators claim the objective was to create confusion and trigger unrest during the demonstration.
Authorities say the alleged plan was disrupted before it could be executed, and the investigation is now focused on determining whether others were involved in the conspiracy.
Intelligence Gathering Was Also Part of the Alleged Mission
The STF further claimed that the suspect had been tasked with collecting information related to the movements and security arrangements of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who investigators say was among the alleged targets.
Officials stated that the accused was asked to identify locations where security could be comparatively weak. However, investigators have not released further operational details, citing security concerns.
Girlfriend Arrested During Investigation
As part of the ongoing probe, the STF also arrested Arpita Sarkar from Jharkhand. Investigators allege that she was in regular contact with Mondal and is being questioned regarding her possible role in the case.
The agency has also alleged that the two were involved in a separate criminal conspiracy to honeytrap and kidnap the son of a state minister for extortion. That allegation is being investigated independently.
Court Sends Accused to STF Custody
Following his arrest, Hamim Mondal was produced before a court, which remanded him to 14 days of STF custody. Investigators are expected to question him further regarding his alleged terror links, communication channels, financial transactions, and possible associates.
Officials say the investigation remains at an early stage, and all allegations are subject to verification through evidence presented during the legal process.
Investigation Continues
Security agencies have indicated that more arrests cannot be ruled out as investigators continue to examine digital records, communication data, and suspected links with cross-border handlers. The STF has emphasized that its findings are based on the ongoing investigation, and the final conclusions will depend on evidence presented before the court.
