STF Expands Jaish Module Probe, Examines Social Media Trail And Suspect's Girlfriend

Kolkata: In a breakthrough in its investigation into a suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed-linked module, the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) has arrested 22-year-old Arpita Sarkar from Sahibganj, Jharkhand. A day earlier, the STF had arrested her alleged associate, Mohammad Hamim Mandal, who is also suspected to have links with the terror outfit. According to investigators, both were allegedly in contact with a suspicious Pakistan-based network through social media.

After presenting Arpita in court, she has been sent to STF custody for 13 days. At present, the agencies are thoroughly investigating his mobile, social media accounts, and digital devices.

What is the most serious allegation against Arpita?

According to the STF, initial investigation has revealed that Arpita Sarkar was allegedly working with Hamim Mandal on the instructions of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Pakistan-backed modules. Investigating agencies allege that she was given the responsibility of gathering information about influential political figures and gaining access to their contacts. Officials also claim that she was involved in a conspiracy to honey trap the son of an influential West Bengal minister. However, the investigation into these allegations is still going on, and the conclusions will be revealed only after the investigation is completed.

How did STF reach Arpita?

According to officials, after the arrest of Hamim Mandal, many important digital clues were found in the investigation of his mobile and social media accounts. Arpita's role was revealed on the basis of Instagram chats, call records, and other online conversations. After this, the STF team reached Sahibganj in Jharkhand and arrested her. Investigation also revealed that the two had become friends through Instagram about four years ago, which later turned into a love relationship.

How was the network connected to Pakistani handlers?

STF claims that during the last few months, both the suspects came in contact with handlers sitting in Pakistan. Investigation has revealed that instructions were given using encrypted platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Element X and Session. The agencies have identified four Pakistani handlers named 'Abir Jaat333', 'Uzair', 'Rana' and 'Hamad'. Investigators suspect that they may have links with the Shehzad Bhatti gang operating in Pakistan. At present, efforts are being made to connect the links of this entire network.

Who is Arpita Sarkar?

Arpita Sarkar is a resident of Barharwa in Sahibganj district of Jharkhand and has graduated in English. She was active on social media as an emerging influencer posting videos related to travel and bike rides. According to the investigating agencies, a separate network was working behind his public image and digital activities, which is now being investigated in depth. His bank accounts, mobile data and social media activities are also being investigated.

Can there be more arrests in this case?

STF says that the investigation is still in the initial stage and many more people may be interrogated or arrested in the coming days. Agencies are trying to find out how many people were involved in this network, how they were getting instructions from abroad, and what their ultimate objective was. Till the investigation is completed, the security agencies are busy investigating every digital and technical aspect related to the case.