West Bengal Man Held in Bengaluru Over Suspected TTP Links, Allegedly Planned Afghanistan Trip

August 15, 2026

Bengaluru: Bengaluru Police have arrested a 25-year-old man from West Bengal over his alleged links with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and suspected plans to travel to Afghanistan, officials said.

The accused, identified as Asafool Mallik, a native of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal, was arrested in the Jigani area of Bengaluru over alleged suspicious online activities and contacts with a person believed to be associated with the TTP.

According to police, Mallik had allegedly established contact through Facebook with a person identified as Imran Haider, who is believed to be based in Afghanistan and linked to the TTP. Mallik allegedly sought his assistance to travel to Afghanistan and join the organisation.

Police Probe Alleged TTP Connection

Police said Mallik was working as a security guard at an industrial facility in Jigani and had been living in the area since December 2025.

During questioning, Mallik allegedly told investigators that he was angry over what he perceived as atrocities against Muslims in Pakistan, including alleged attacks on mosques and civilians. Police also said he had expressed anger over Pakistan’s position on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Investigators suspect that he was allegedly being encouraged to retaliate if Muslims faced difficulties in India.

Police subsequently examined his mobile phone and allegedly found chats, voice-call records and audio conversations between Mallik and the suspected TTP associate.

Afghanistan Travel Plan Abandoned

According to the police, Mallik had applied for a visa to travel to Afghanistan and sought assistance from Haider for the journey.

However, he allegedly abandoned the plan because of financial difficulties and family responsibilities, police said. Investigators are now examining the digital material recovered from his phone to establish the extent of his alleged links and determine whether he had contact with any other members or associates of the organisation.

The investigation is also looking into allegations that Mallik had discussed retaliatory attacks against the Pakistan Army and possible activities in India.