Kochi, December 20: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday told the Special NIA Court in Kochi that the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) leaders from Kerala were in touch with some leaders of the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda.
The NIA said this while seeking more time for investigation against PFI leaders arrested after the ban. The NIA also stated that there is a secret wing of the PFI working to prepare a hit list of people from other communities and their activities were centered on the PFI office. ED has filed fresh charge sheet against PFI chief Perwez Ahmed, Mohd Ilias and Abdul Muqeet before Delhi High Court for terror related activities.
The NIA further said, “IS and Al-Qaeda terrorist organizations use country-based anti-state and religious terrorist organizations for subversive activities in countries where their direct operations are not possible. The NIA has received indications that PFI leaders in Kerala were in contact. Some of the IS, Al-Qaeda leaders. More detailed research is needed.”
The NIA said that crucial information has been obtained regarding the treasonous activities carried out by the PFI. Digital evidence is also important. “The investigation also revealed moves by PFI leaders through social media groups to involve youths in terrorist activities. Several people have already been questioned as the investigation reaches its final stages,” the investigating agency said. After the submission, the NIA court accepted the NIA’s request for more time to gather evidence and investigate. PFI Ban: Karnataka High Court upholds ban on Popular Front of India for involvement in ‘Anti-National’ activities.
Accordingly, he has given the NIA another 90 days to complete the investigation and file the charge sheet. There are 13 accused in the case registered in Kochi. The period of their judicial custody has been increased up to 180 days after this judgment of the Court.
The case states that PFI leaders and workers were arrested after simultaneous raids across the country on September 22 and charged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
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