New Delhi, May 11 (TRK) : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted multiple searches on Thursday in the twin districts of the Kashmir Valley to crack down on terrorism funding activities linked to Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI).
In a statement issued to the news agency TRK News, the NIA said it has been tightening the noose around groups involved in anti-India activities and strengthening the security apparatus in the Valley.
The search operation was carried out in Budgam and Baramulla districts, targeting 11 locations in the case related to JeI accused of engaging in separatist and secessionist activities, even after being declared an unlawful association under the UA(P) Act since its proscription on 28th February 2019. Four persons have already been charged in the case (RC-03/2021/NIA/DLI), according to the statement.
The searches were conducted at the premises of the JeI members and their sympathizers, resulting in the recovery of multiple digital devices and incriminating material.
NIA’s initial investigations, which led them to register suo moto case on 5th February 2021, unearthed that JeI has been involved in collecting money under the guise of charitable purposes, such as promoting health and education, and used it for carrying out unlawful activities in J&K.
JeI members have been collecting money, both within and outside India, through specific donations like Zakat, Mowda, and Bait-ul-Mal. The funds have been primarily used to fund violent and secessionist activities, and also channeled to proscribed terrorist organizations like Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.