Delhi Police Special Cell Arrests Four Ghazwa-e-Hind Inspired Terror Accused.

‘Conducted Recce of Red Fort, India Gate’: Four Muslim Youths Arrested; Odisha Accused’s Questioning Reveals Sleeper Cells, Terror Financing, and Ghazwa-e-Hind Attack Plans.

Upananda Brahmachari | HENB | New Delhi | April 19, 2026:: A major counter-terror operation by the Delhi Police Special Cell has led to the arrest of four alleged radicalised Muslim youths, uncovering what investigators describe as an active sleeper cell involved in terror financing, online indoctrination, and preparations for potential attacks on high-value targets in India.

According to police officials, the arrests followed the earlier detention of Sheikh Imran from Odisha, who was brought to Delhi on transit remand. On Saturday, authorities formally arrested and produced before a court four accused—Sheikh Imran, Mosaib Ahmad, Mohammad Hammad, and Mohammad Sohail—hailing from Odisha, Maharashtra, and Bihar.

Recce of National Landmarks and Target Identification

Investigators revealed that Sheikh Imran had visited Delhi in December 2025 and conducted reconnaissance of key national landmarks, including the Red Fort and India Gate. Authorities also stated that the accused had discussed targeting sensitive locations such as the Ram Mandir, Parliament, and military installations.

In a concerning development, one of the accused allegedly shared an image depicting a black flag atop the Red Fort on social media platforms, aimed at furthering radical propaganda and influencing recruits.

Sleeper Cell, Radical Ideology, and Recruitment

The Special Cell stated that the group operated as part of a sleeper cell with links to extreme Islamist networks. The accused were reportedly active on encrypted social media platforms, where they functioned as administrators and members of closed groups focused on indoctrination and recruitment.

Police said the group subscribed to extremist narratives, including the idea of an army emerging from “Khurasan” to establish a caliphate in the Indian subcontinent and beyond. Investigators also found references to participation in “Ghazwa-e-Hind,” a term often used in extremist propaganda.

The accused allegedly used these platforms to radicalise Muslim youth, encourage Jihadi extremism, and mobilise individuals for recruitment into terror-linked activities to establish a caliphate in India through huge Hindu genocide.

IED Preparation and Arms Training Plans

Authorities confirmed the recovery of materials linked to the preparation of an improvised explosive device (IED). Two members of the module were in the process of collecting locally sourced components for a remote-controlled IED, intended for use in a future attack.

The investigation revealed that:

• Mohammad Hammad procured materials such as ball bearings, nails, and a remote-controlled toy car, which could be adapted for IED assembly.
• Mosaib Ahmad, who has a background as a mechanic, was tasked with assembling the device and had shared images of modified components within closed groups.

Additionally, one accused allegedly exhorted others to collect weapons and explosives, while another promised to arrange arms and physical training—including horse riding—in Odisha. Funds were solicited through bank accounts and QR codes circulated on social media channels.

Terror Financing and Online Propaganda

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Pravin Tripathi stated that the accused were actively engaged in raising funds for extremist activities through online crowdfunding mechanisms. These efforts were disguised under ideological appeals, encouraging contributions in support of jihad.

The group also reportedly disseminated radical content and speeches via social media, contributing to a broader ecosystem of online indoctrination.

Profiles of the Accused

• Mosaib Ahmad (Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh): A school dropout who worked as a welder, auto mechanic, and electrician in India and abroad, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar. At the time of arrest, he was employed at an automobile workshop in Thane. He was actively involved in extremist discussion groups and assisted in technical aspects of IED preparation.
• Mohammad Hammad (Mumbai, Maharashtra): A Class 12 student (via correspondence), who joined radical online groups in early 2026. He procured and shared materials for IED construction and coordinated with Ahmad for assembly.
• Sheikh Imran (Bhubaneswar, Odisha): With a background as a security guard and delivery worker, Imran allegedly became radicalised after consuming online lectures by figures such as Tariq Jameel, Israr Ahmed, and Zakir Naik. He is believed to have played a central role in forming and managing the group, coordinating activities, and conducting reconnaissance in Delhi.
• Mohammad Sohail (Katihar, Bihar): A plumber by profession, Sohail allegedly created multiple social media accounts to spread extremist messaging. In March 2026, he reportedly urged followers to collect weapons and explosives and shared financial details for fundraising.

Ongoing Investigation

Police officials indicated that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying further links, possible handlers, and the extent of the network. Authorities are also examining digital evidence recovered from the accused to trace additional recruits and funding channels.

The arrests highlight growing concerns over online radicalisation, encrypted communication platforms, and the emergence of decentralised sleeper cells operating across multiple states.

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_Agency Inputs.