Man accused of brainwashing bachelors in MP:ATS probes alleged recruitment network, digital links and suspected foreign handlers

Interrogation of Mohammad Faraz alias Khalid Saifullah, who was arrested from Bhopal’s Qazi Camp area, has reportedly revealed startling information to investigating agencies. According to sources, Faraz had allegedly been tasked by Pakistani handlers with building a network in Madhya Pradesh, targeting poor and unmarried young men for ideological indoctrination, and spreading extremist content through social media platforms. Preliminary findings suggest that Telegram and WhatsApp groups were being used to recruit and influence youths. Faraz allegedly created online groups to attract members and share suspicious content. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) is now examining his digital footprint, possible foreign funding channels, and links to a broader network. Associate arrested from Deoband Based on Faraz’s disclosures, ATS arrested his associate, Naeem Abdullah from Deoband in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday. Following their court appearance, both accused were remanded to ATS custody until June 16. Investigators claim Naeem played a key role in introducing Faraz to an alleged Pakistan-based handler. Authorities suspect the duo was attempting to establish an organised network and are investigating how many people may have been connected to it across the state. Secret early-morning operation led to arrest ATS officials conducted a confidential raid at Faraz’s residence in Qazi Camp at around 3:30 a.m. on Thursday. A team of approximately 12 officers, including three women personnel, surrounded the house before entering through the rooftop and taking him into custody. Worked at clinic, also epaired batteries According to investigators, Faraz worked at a local medical clinic and also carried out battery repair work. He is unmarried, and initial inquiries indicate that he studied at a religious institution in Deoband, where he met Naeem Abdullah from Saharanpur. Officials believe Naeem later facilitated Faraz’s contact with foreign handlers, leading to efforts to establish an alleged recruitment network in Madhya Pradesh. Investigation focuses on mobile data and ideological links The ATS has seized Faraz’s mobile phone and sent it for forensic examination. Investigators expect the device to provide crucial information about his contacts, communications, activities, and any alleged funding channels. According to submissions made by the ATS before the court, both Faraz and Naeem were allegedly influenced by an ideology advocating the implementation of Sharia law in India by 2047. During questioning, they reportedly stated that certain radical groups promote narratives claiming that governments since Independence have discriminated against a particular community. Authorities are examining these claims and any associated networks. Social media activity under scanner Investigators say Faraz had been active on Telegram and WhatsApp groups for nearly four years. His mobile phone, social media accounts, chat history, call records, and other digital activities are being scrutinised. Authorities are identifying the groups he participated in, the type of content he shared, and his list of contacts in an effort to uncover additional individuals linked to the alleged network. Alleged focus on economically weaker youths Sources claim that during questioning, Faraz stated his father works in battery repair and that he is the family’s only son. Investigators allege Pakistani handlers advised him to recruit young people from economically weaker sections and expand the operation. ATS is also examining his banking records to determine whether any foreign funding was involved. Home and workplace found locked When local reporters visited on Saturday, both Faraz’s residence and the Khushboo Clinic where he worked were found locked. His family had reportedly left the house after securing it. Faraz had been employed as a compounder at the clinic for around 15 years. The clinic also remained closed following his arrest. Neighbours describe him as religious figure Residents of the locality described Faraz as a deeply religious individual. According to neighbours, he and his wife conducted tuition classes for schoolchildren at their home and also organised Quran classes every Tuesday morning. Faraz lived with his parents, wife, and three-year-old daughter in Congress Nagar, opposite Oxford School. Locals said the couple taught students from Classes 1 to 10. Clinic doctor also absent after arrest Faraz had reportedly worked as a compounder at Khushboo Clinic since its inception. The clinic’s operator, Dr. Parvez Ali, is registered with the Madhya Pradesh Board of Ayurvedic, Unani and Naturopathy Systems of Medicine, with registration valid until August 13, 2029. Following Faraz’s arrest, the clinic has remained closed, and Dr. Parvez has reportedly not returned. Attempts to contact him for comment were unsuccessful. Investigators expanding probe The ATS and other agencies are continuing to examine Faraz’s professional, social, and personal connections. Investigators are gathering information from his workplace, acquaintances, and wider social circle to determine the extent of his alleged activities and identify any additional individuals connected to the case.