The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its manhunt for Junaid Ahmed, a suspect in a high-profile Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror conspiracy. A new offer had the central agency formally announcing a ₹5 lakh cash reward if anybody can provide credible information leading to his arrest. Junaid Ahmed, an Indian national, resides in Nagashettihalli and has been on the run for more than three years. After a prolonged search abroad that includes dozens of intelligence teams, his current whereabouts remain unknown.
Posters in Majestic: A Public Appeal
In order to reach out to the public, NIA officials pasted "Wanted" posters across the city’s major transit hubs, including Majestic (KSR Bengaluru). Visible on pillars and walls next to the railway station and bus stands, the posters urge citizens to come forward with any information while also ensuring the identity of an informant will remain strictly confidential.
From Red Sanders Smuggler to Terror Mastermind
Junaid Ahmed's journey into the world of terrorism serves as a brutal illustration of prison-style radicalization. Previously a petty criminal engaged in the smuggling of Red Sanders, Junaid was arrested and taken to Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. During his time in jail, he was introduced to T. Naseer, a life convict who was one of the main operatives of the Lashkar-e-Taiba and the mastermind behind the 2008 Bengaluru serial blasts. A product of Naseer's influence, Junaid was radicalized and reportedly recruited into the terror network. Following release on bail, Junaid allegedly escaped to Dubai and is believed to be orchestrating terrorism back in India.
The 2023 Terror Plot
Junaid’s name emerged as the primary mastermind in the July 2023 Bengaluru terror module case. The Central Crime Branch (CCB) had raided a house in Kodigehalli and recovered:
- 7 country-made pistols
- 45 live rounds of ammunition
- Hand grenades and walkie-talkies
- Incriminating digital devices
Investigations showed that Junaid had financed the purchase of these weapons and was planning explosions in Bengaluru. The NIA also determined that he had been plotting to assist T. Naseer escape during a court transit.
Family & Associates Under Pressure
The NIA has already made significant progress in the case. The agency recently chargesheeted Junaid’s mother, Anees Fathima, alleging she provided logistical support and handled explosives on her son’s behalf. Several other associates have been implicated in the crime, such as a prison psychiatrist and a police official, whose job it was to assist the network on the jail's premises. As they seek local leads in his native city, Bengaluru, that may help track Junaid's trail in the Middle East, NIA officials continue cooperating with international agencies.
