Bengaluru Hacker Now Mastermind Behind Terror Plots, On MHA's List
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Terrorism & insurgency (J&K, North-East)· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) designated Mohammed Shahid Faisal as a terrorist, identifying him as a tech-savvy mastermind behind terror plots in South India.
Background
Mohammed Shahid Faisal (alias Zakir Ustad) is a 42-year-old engineering graduate from Bengaluru. He was added to the MHA's designated terrorists list for his role as an online handler for incidents including the Mangaluru and Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blasts.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyMinistry of Home Affairs (MHA) is the nodal ministry for designating individuals as terrorists in India.
- FactMohammed Shahid Faisal was identified as an online handler for terror incidents in South India since 2020.
- FactFaisal is linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Al-Qaeda, and ISIS.
- PlaceThe Mangaluru and Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blasts are cited as specific incidents linked to his activities.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the evolving nature of cyber-enabled terrorism and the challenges faced by Indian security agencies in neutralizing tech-savvy handlers.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Jurisdictional hurdles: Challenges in apprehending and prosecuting individuals who flee India to operate across international borders.
Keywords: Cyber-terrorism · Designated Terrorists · Lashkar-e-Taiba · Online Handling · Counter-terrorism
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