Karnataka Terror Arrest
NIA arrests Karnataka man over alleged communications with Pakistan terror suspects.
Anonymous
Key Points
1
Police say Metre initially denied links to terrorist organisations or illegal arms networks and declined to hand over his phone before eventually providing it for examination.
2
The FIR names two additional alleged contacts—Ashu Sharma of Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, and Raj Bhai, also known as Lucky Singh, of Khargone, Madhya Pradesh.
3
According to one report, the case was registered on October 2 after a complaint by Bhalki Rural Circle Inspector Hanmareddeppa; police said they had received an intelligence input and were conducting a secret operation.
4
Police sources described the arrest as the third in Karnataka in 15 days involving alleged links to terrorist elements; agencies were examining whether Metre had a role beyond maintaining contact with the suspected operatives.
The National Investigation Agency arrested a 24-year-old man from Karnataka on suspicion of maintaining contact with Pakistan-based terrorist suspects. The Hindu reported that Vishal Kumar Metre from Bidar district allegedly communicated with three named individuals including Shahzad Bhatti, a designated terrorist. Police say they found evidence on his phone and social media of contact with suspected operatives involved in illegal arms trafficking.
Metre initially denied the allegations and refused to hand over his phone before eventually providing it for examination, according to Indian Express. He faces charges under India's Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The investigation remains ongoing and no charges have been proven in court.
How Police Say the Investigation Unfolded
According to New Indian Express, police registered the case on October 2 following an intelligence input and complaint from a local inspector in Bhalki. The NIA then took Metre to Bengaluru for questioning about his alleged terror links. Daily Excelsior noted that authorities examined his phone and social media accounts to find communications with the suspects.
Three Pakistan-Based Suspects Named in the Case
The FIR identifies three alleged contacts: Shahzad Bhatti, Rana Hunain, and Nomi Khan, all linked to Pakistan according to police. Indian Express reported that Metre allegedly joined WhatsApp channels and viewed content authorities say was prejudicial to India's unity and sovereignty. Investigators are still examining whether Metre played any active role beyond maintaining contact with these individuals.
Two Additional Contacts Under Investigation
The FIR also names two Indian contacts: Ashu Sharma of Mainpuri in Uttar Pradesh and Raj Bhai (also known as Lucky Singh) of Khargone in Madhya Pradesh. The Hindu indicated that police suspect these individuals may be involved in illegal firearms trafficking networks. This arrest marks the third terror-linked case in Karnataka in just 15 days, according to police sources.
Sentiment
Mostly NegativeNEGATIVENEUTRALPOSITIVE
Publishers
13
Articles
6
Reach
19
A
AnonymousAuthor
