Pakistan phone numbers found linked to Kerala student activist arrested under UAPA

 

 

 

The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has uncovered a potentially serious international link in the ongoing investigation against Rejaz M Sheeba Sydeek, a Kerala-based student-activist who was recently arrested for allegedly waging war against India. According to ATS officials, during the course of the interrogation, Sydeek was found to have been in contact with six Pakistan-based phone numbers. This revelation has triggered a deeper probe by the squad to ascertain the identities and backgrounds of the persons associated with these numbers.

 

The police are working to determine whether the Pakistan-based persons have any terrorist affiliations or links to extremist networks. “If a terror connection is confirmed, the investigation will expand and involve multiple agencies,” said an official close to the probe. Sydeek, who was known for his tech-savviness and digital activism, is suspected to have utilised the dark web to communicate with persons beyond national borders. His digital footprint and online associations are currently being analysed by cybercrime experts within the ATS. Sydeek travelled to Nagpur to meet a third-year law student from Symbiosis College, whom he had befriended via Instagram. From May 5 to 7, the duo stayed at a local hotel and visited a rifle shop where Sydeek was photographed holding firearms.

 

This image was flagged by security agencies who were monitoring his movements and it became a crucial lead in tracking his location. Following his arrest on May 7, Sydeek was booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). His initial police custody (PCR) ended on Tuesday. In court, the ATS requested for magisterial custody remand (MCR), with a clause allowing for Sydeek to be brought back into ATS custody when further interrogation is needed. The court has since ordered that he be lodged in Central Jail. Intelligence agencies are now on high alert and attempting to trace the origin and purpose of these foreign contacts and whether Sydeek was a conduit for any cross-border anti-national activity.