West Bengal's Special Task Force has arrested Hamim Mondal over an alleged terror plot involving Pakistan-based handlers targeting Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The investigation revealed directives to track the leader's security routines and disrupt protests in Delhi. Authorities are now expanding the probe to identify further threats against political figures and police personnel.
The West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) confirmed on Saturday the arrest of Hamim Mondal, an individual allegedly linked to a security threat against Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. According to official statements from the STF, investigations revealed that the suspect was in communication with handlers based in Pakistan who were seeking detailed intelligence on the Chief Minister's daily movements.
Intelligence Gathering on Security Vulnerabilities
STF Inspector General Gaurav Sharma stated that the primary objective of the suspected network was to identify gaps in the security cover provided to the Chief Minister. The investigation indicates that the handlers were specifically focused on periods where security protocols might have been reduced, suggesting a coordinated effort to monitor his schedule and routine. This arrest follows a wider intelligence gathering operation by the STF aimed at identifying surveillance activities targeting high-profile individuals in the state.
Connection to Disruptions at Jantar Mantar
The inquiry has also linked the suspect to attempts to incite unrest outside the state. Authorities allege that Hamim Mondal received instructions to procure police uniforms, which were reportedly intended to be used to create disturbances during student protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The STF is currently analyzing these communications to determine the extent of the involvement of external actors in domestic civil demonstrations.
Expansion of the Investigation
The ongoing investigation originated from a separate inquiry into extortion attempts against a senior minister based in Howrah and a reported plan involving the kidnapping of his family member. As the STF deepens its probe into these communication channels, officials are examining data related to multiple online handles traced to origins in Pakistan. The task force is broadening its scope to determine if other political leaders, public officials, and prominent citizens remain at risk of similar surveillance or intimidation tactics. Future updates from the STF are expected as the forensic examination of digital evidence progresses and further leads are followed regarding the extent of this cross-border coordination.