West Bengal probe uncovers online recruitment and surveillance by Pakistan-linked terror cell

The West Bengal Special Task Force is investigating a Pakistan-linked terror module that allegedly leveraged social media and a gaming platform to enlist young individuals for covert operations. Hamim Mondal, identified as a Jaish-e-Mohammed operative, first connected with aspiring influencer Arpita Sarkar on Instagram four years ago, later directing her to honey-trap senior officials and police officers. Another suspect, Aditya Singh, reportedly encountered Mondal through an online game and was assigned to surveil Minister of State for Urban Development Umesh Rai and his son, collecting photographs and movement data.

Both men and women have been arrested, and investigators are assessing whether the intelligence gathering was part of a plot to target the minister ahead of Independence Day celebrations. The STF is also probing encrypted communications, possible foreign funding, and the extent of the network’s recruitment tactics. Officials say the inquiry remains ongoing as they seek to map the full chain of contacts and prevent any imminent terror act.