Bengaluru, July 30, 2025 – In a major breakthrough, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), assisted by local Bengaluru police, has arrested a 30-year-old woman identified as the alleged leader and chief handler of an Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) module operating from Karnataka.
The Arrest
The accused, identified as Shama Parveen (also referred to as Sama Parveen)—originally from Jharkhand—was arrested from her rented apartment in Bengaluru’s Manorayanapalya/ Hebbal area on Tuesday. Sources say she had been living in Bengaluru for about three to five years with her brother, who works in the software industry. Following intelligence from earlier arrests, Gujarat ATS tracked her digital activity, leading to the raid.
Digital Trail and Alleged Role
Investigators say Parveen played a central role in coordinating the module’s online operations. She managed and promoted radical content on Instagram and other social media platforms. Her posts reportedly included extremist speeches and propaganda supporting AQIS ideology, including “Ghazwa-e-Hind,” a call for militant action.
Her digital devices—including a laptop and mobile phones—were seized during the raid. Forensic experts suggest she communicated with previously arrested operatives and foreign handlers, possibly including individuals in Pakistan.
Broader Network and Earlier Arrests
Parveen’s arrest comes shortly after the detention of four young men across Delhi, Noida, Ahmedabad, and Modasa, accused of sharing extremist content via Instagram and coordinating attack planning. These suspects—Mohd Faiq, Mohd Fardeen, Sefullah Kureshi, and Zeeshan Ali—are believed to have been in contact with Parveen and other members of the AQIS-linked module.
Officials describe this arrest as a crucial step in disrupting the AQIS network that was attempting to expand its influence across India.
Investigative Update
At the time of writing, Parveen has been presented before a local court in Bengaluru, where a transit warrant was issued to transfer her to Gujarat for further questioning. Authorities confirmed charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Gujarat ATS and federal agencies are now conducting detailed digital forensics and interrogations to map out the full extent of the module’s network. Efforts are ongoing to identify other operatives and assess any plans for coordinated attacks targeting religious or strategic sites.
Community and Security Response
The arrest has spurred heightened security vigilance in Bengaluru, with local law enforcement units strengthening intelligence monitoring across the city. Security agencies have warned of the threat posed by online radicalisation, emphasising the need for proactive surveillance of digital platforms.
Local residents in Manorayanapalya and Hebbal reported surprise over the arrest, many describing Parveen as reserved and not involved in community activities. Authorities say this case highlights how easily extremist messaging can flourish behind facades.
What Happens Next?
As the investigation deepens, authorities aim to determine the full scope of Parveen’s role and her connections—both domestic and foreign. The focus now shifts to extracting digital evidence, reconstructing communication chains, and uncovering any actionable plans. Legal proceedings will roll out as police file formal charges and move to custody in Gujarat.
This arrest marks a significant advance in India’s fight against online terror propaganda. With several arrests already made, investigators are confident that the key operational links within the AQIS-affiliated module are now under scrutiny.
Stay tuned here for further updates as more facts emerge.
