Maharashtra ISIS-inspired attack: ‘Suspect had desire to attack Hindus,’ CM Fadnavis says | India News
New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday acknowledged the “lone wolf” stabbing attack on two security guards in Thane, saying it was seen as a possible case of self-extremism where the accused intended to target members of the Hindu community in the name of jihad. He added that investigators are looking into whether a wider network or conspiracy was involved.“It appears to be a case of self-radicalization. Some books and incriminating material were recovered from the accused’s residence. He used to live in the US and had recently returned. Preliminary investigation revealed that he was radicalized and wanted to attack members of the Hindu community in the name of Jihad, due to which he committed the incident.”“The case is currently being investigated by the Anti-Terrorism Squad National Investigation Agency And the state government is extending full cooperation to these organizations. The scope of the investigation will not be limited to the accused, it will also probe the individuals or networks behind his radicalisation. The entire case will be thoroughly investigated to uncover possible conspiracy,” he added.The statement came after a suspected “lone wolf” terror attack in the Naya Nagar area of suburban Mumbai’s Mira Road early on Monday, in which a 31-year-old man allegedly stabbed two security guards.According to police, the accused, identified as Jabar Zubair Ansari, first approached the guards on duty on the pretext of seeking directions. He later returned, interrogated them about their religion and allegedly forced one of them to recite the Islamic kalama. When the guard was unable to do so, he attacked both the men with sharp weapons, ANI reported quoting eyewitness accounts.The injured, Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Ramesh Sen, were hospitalized with serious injuries. Mishra’s condition is critical, while Sen is undergoing treatment.Police said Ansari was arrested within 90 minutes of the incident after CCTV footage helped identify him. A case of attempted murder has been registered, and the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has taken over the investigation.During a search of his residence, investigators allegedly recovered handwritten notes in which he expressed his desire to join ISIS and described the attack as a “first step” toward that goal. Officials are also examining digital evidence from his electronic devices to determine possible links to extremist handlers or networks.
