Malegaon: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a tailor from Nomani Nagar, Malegaon, for allegedly conspiring against national security and maintaining contact with Pakistan-based terror outfits. The operation was conducted on October 13, 2025, in coordination with the Andhra Pradesh Police.
The accused, identified as Tausif Aslam Shaikh, was taken into custody after being under surveillance for several months. Investigators allege that Shaikh used WhatsApp and other social media platforms to communicate with operatives across the border. His digital activity had reportedly drawn suspicion, prompting a joint operation between state agencies.
Shaikh is currently being interrogated at the Malegaon Police Headquarters. Authorities are examining his phone records and online interactions to verify the extent of his alleged connections. The ATS has also launched a digital forensic analysis to identify any wider network involved in the communication.
Officials said the arrest is part of a broader state-level drive to track and curb terror-linked activities within Maharashtra. The ATS has increased its focus on individuals who maintain cross-border digital links that threaten internal security.
The development has once again highlighted the issue of online radicalization and the use of social media platforms for covert recruitment and communication by foreign terror networks. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
