In a major counter-terror operation, Hyderabad police and central agencies thwarted an Islamic State (IS)-linked terror plot, arresting a local doctor and recovering Pakistan-origin weapons. The accused, Dr. Abdul Rehman (32), allegedly planned ricin-based attacks—a deadly biological weapon—highlighting India’s growing domestic radicalization risks.
Hyderabad Doctor’s Ricin Terror Plan
Dr. Rehman, a general physician from Hyderabad’s Old City, was radicalized online by IS operatives. Intelligence reveals he researched ricin synthesis—a toxin deadlier than cyanide—and attempted to procure lab equipment. Ricin has no antidote and can cause mass casualties if deployed in public spaces.
Key Evidence:
– Encrypted chats with Pakistan-based handlers discussing “economic disruption” and “Gaza revenge.”
– NIA intercepts revealed target scouting for crowded areas.
Pakistan-Smuggled Weapons Cache
Raids uncovered a significant arms haul, including:
✔ 3 AK-47 rifles (likely Chinese-made)
✔ 9 pistols
✔ 20 grenades
✔ ₹12 lakh fake currency
Forensic reports confirm smuggling via Punjab’s Ferozepur border, with drones and river routes used—echoing tactics seen in Jammu attacks.
Why Hyderabad Is a Terror Hotspot
Hyderabad has faced repeated IS-linked cases due to:
1. Online Radicalization: IS recruits tech-savvy professionals via encrypted apps.
2. Cross-Border Links: Over a dozen youths joined IS-Khorasan since 2014.
3. Historic Extremism: Old City’s Salafi pockets remain under surveillance.
Security Gaps Exposed
- Lax Pharma Controls: How did ricin precursors go undetected?
- Drone Smuggling: Despite ₹2000 crore for anti-drone tech, gaps persist.
- Community Intel: Radicals often evade local scrutiny.
Next Steps
The NIA will probe Dr. Rehman’s network, while the MHA audits chemical suppliers. With elections nearing, agencies warn of potential copycat plots.
Bottom Line: This case underscores IS’s shift toward bio-terror—and India’s urgent need to upgrade counter-radicalization measures.
(Reported by [Your Name], with agency inputs)
