Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD): In a significant move against online radicalisation, the Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) has arrested a social media user from Shalimar, Srinagar, for allegedly propagating extremist content and glorifying slain militant commander Zakir Musa.
Acting on credible intelligence and digital surveillance, CIK identified and apprehended Showkat Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Ahmad Dar, a resident of Doodh Mohalla, Shalimar. Authorities revealed that Showkat had been misusing his Facebook account, ‘Shaddy Kashmir Dryfruits’, to disseminate radical content aimed at disrupting public order.
Upon receiving actionable inputs regarding his online activities, security agencies swiftly launched an investigation, tracking the suspect despite his frequent changes of location. A well-coordinated operation led to his arrest, along with the seizure of digital devices. A preliminary forensic examination confirmed his access to the radical Facebook account and uncovered incriminating material, including extremist propaganda videos.
Officials disclosed that Showkat has a history of radical activities, having been arrested in 2019 for stone-pelting incidents and later detained in 2022 by the Cyber Police Station Srinagar for spreading online extremist content.
This crackdown forms part of a wider initiative by security and intelligence agencies in Jammu and Kashmir, in coordination with social media monitoring units, to dismantle radical networks and prevent extremist influences from reaching vulnerable youth.
CIK has reaffirmed its commitment to countering digital radicalisation and safeguarding public peace. Investigations are ongoing to identify any potential associates, and further legal action will be taken in accordance with the law.(DD)