STF probes alleged encrypted communication links of JeM suspects

PTI, August 2, 2026, Kolkata : Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militant Hamim Mondal and his handlers initially used Instagram as their primary communication platform before shifting to encrypted messaging applications, sources said.

According to investigators, Hamim first connected with his close aide and suspected girlfriend, Arpita Sarkar, through Instagram. After persuading her to work with him, the duo switched to the messaging app Element X to communicate and allegedly plan their criminal activities.

Sources said the "blueprint" of the alleged crimes was prepared through the app's chatbox.

Special Task Force (STF) Inspector General Gaurav Sharma said Hamim had attempted to honeytrap the son of a minister in Howrah using Arpita.

Investigators suspect the duo had also planned to extort others through blackmail.

Police are trying to identify others who may have supported Hamim and Arpita in West Bengal.

Investigators have also learnt that their Pakistan-based handlers allegedly planned to build a network using the two.

According to sources, Arpita was in direct contact with some Pakistan-based handlers, who allegedly guided her on potential targets and operational matters.

The STF also recovered international SIM cards issued in the United Kingdom and Mexico from the accused.

"The SIM cards are suspected to have been used for encrypted communication with handlers operating from abroad and to facilitate the strengthening of sleeper cells and the terror network in different parts of the country," Sharma said.

Investigators have also found links between Hamim, Arpita and the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti gang.

According to the STF, Hamim had allegedly been instructed by the gang to procure a police uniform and travel to Jantar Mantar during the NEET protest movement to create unrest. However, it is yet to be established whether he actually travelled to Delhi.