UP Tailor Detained by Gujarat ATS in Alleged Terror Plot Involving Targeted Killings
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a 22-year-old tailor from Uttar Pradesh's Rampur district, Faizan Shakil Salmani, in connection with a terror conspiracy case. The arrest, made in Navsari, Gujarat, on January 25, 2026, has sent shockwaves through his hometown of Narpatnagar Nagar, where residents describe him as an uneducated individual from a simple family.
Details of the Alleged Conspiracy and Arrest
According to the Gujarat ATS, Faizan was allegedly planning targeted killings across Uttar Pradesh in response to perceived insults against the Prophet. Officials claim that his phone contained literature supporting the ideologies of banned terrorist organizations, including Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Al-Qaeda. The ATS described him as a lone wolf and stated that he conspired with a wanted accused, Mohammed Abu Bakar, to wage war against the Government of India and incite violence.
During the investigation, authorities seized an Indian-made pistol and six live rounds from Faizan's possession. He reportedly admitted to purchasing the firearm six months ago from an unidentified person in Uttar Pradesh. The ATS tracked him through a suspicious Instagram profile, 'al.faizangaza', which led to his apprehension in a joint raid.
Family and Community Reactions
Local residents and family members have expressed disbelief at the allegations. Advocate Mohammad Arif, son of the panchayat chairman, highlighted that Faizan is uneducated and cannot even sign his name, suggesting his phone may have been hacked. Faizan's father, Shakeel Ahmed Salmani, a caterer, has not commented on the case. The family had sent Faizan to Gujarat to earn a livelihood and support the household financially, with his last visit home occurring in May of the previous year.
Police officials from Rampur conducted a detailed inquiry and found no criminal background or involvement in suspicious activities in Faizan's past. However, the Gujarat ATS has charged him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Arms Act. He was produced before a local court and remanded to 12-day police custody before being brought to the ATS headquarters in Ahmedabad.
Broader Implications and Legal Proceedings
The case underscores ongoing concerns about terror threats and radicalization in India. The ATS alleges that Faizan aimed to spread terror within a specific community and incite armed rebellion to separate Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh from India. As the investigation continues, this incident highlights the challenges in balancing security measures with the rights of individuals from marginalized backgrounds.
