Gangtok: A 19-year-old youth from Nam Nang has been arrested by the Sadar Police Station, Gangtok, in connection with an investigation into alleged links with the banned terrorist outfit Islamic State (IS), following a joint operation supported by the Delhi Police.
According to Sikkim Police sources, intelligence inputs indicated that an Instagram group identified as “GIM (Group of Islamic Members)” was allegedly being used to spread extremist ideology, recruit members, and circulate propaganda associated with the Islamic State.
Acting on the information, police conducted a search operation at a residence on Lower MG Marg, Nam Nang Road, Gangtok. During the raid, six members of the same family were detained for questioning, and several electronic devices, including mobile phones, laptops, iPads, and pen drives, were seized for examination.
During the investigation, police alleged that one of the detainees, Md. Arju (19), displayed suspicious behaviour. A forensic examination of his Samsung mobile phone reportedly led to the recovery of digital material, including alleged extremist-related applications, chats concerning the GIM group, discussions relating to alleged militant funding, and communications with individuals based in India and Pakistan.
Investigators also claimed to have recovered ChatGPT conversation records which, according to the police, indicated alleged ideological support for extremist views.
Police said that after a preliminary inquiry, no incriminating evidence was found against the other five detained family members—Md. Kalim (58), Md. Talim (26), Md. Arif (22), Md. Alim (25), and Md. Ersad (45). They were subsequently released after executing bail bonds.
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Based on the material collected during the investigation, Sadar Police Station registered an FIR dated June 13, 2026, against Md. Arju and others under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Information Technology Act.
The investigation is being conducted by Deputy Superintendent of Police Mingyur Tempo Nadik.
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