Following inputs from the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) about alleged surveillance on sensitive locations in Mumbai and Maharashtra, including Chabad House in Colaba, the Mumbai police heightened security measures on Saturday, July 19.
Chabad house was one of the targets during 26/11
Chabad House, which was one of the targets during the infamous 26/11 terror attack, received increased protection as a precautionary measure after the arrest of three suspects in connection with the Al-Sufa terror organisation case. The authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the community and thwarting any potential threats.
Maharashtra ATS officials have verified that both the Mumbai Police Commissionerate and the DG office have received comprehensive briefings regarding the situation, resulting in the implementation of increased security measures.
Earlier this month, the Pune police detained three individuals involved in bike theft, though one of them eluded captThe Chabad House in Colaba, Mumbai, a Jewish Community Center, is on high alert once again after two suspected terrorists were arrested in Pune with incriminating evidence related to the facility. The recovery of a Google photo of the Chabad House from the arrested individuals has prompted Mumbai Police to enhance security measures at the center.
The Pune Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) apprehended Mohd Imran Mohd Yusus Khan (23) and Mohd Yunus Mohd Yakub Saki (24) on suspicion of involvement in a bike theft case. During interrogation, ATS uncovered a Google photo of the Chabad House in their possession. ATS immediately shared this crucial information with the Mumbai Police, leading to an immediate increase in security at the center.
Despite having 'A' grade security, the Chabad House is now subject to heightened protective measures due to the potential threat. In light of the situation, a mock drill was conducted by the Mumbai Police on Thursday to further bolster security preparedness at the facility.
The Chabad House holds significant historical importance, having been targeted during the infamous Mumbai 26/11 attacks. Since then, the center has maintained a stringent security protocol, with a constant 24/7 police presence. The Chabad House serves as a community center for the Jewish community, providing essential social support and services to its members, including a significant number of visitors from America, Europe, and Israel.
The arrested individuals, Khan and Saki, hailing from Ratlam district, Madhya Pradesh, are professional graphic designers. They were wanted in a terrorism case in Rajasthan, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had been actively searching for them. The suspects are believed to be associated with the Al-Sufa terror module and had undergone bomb blast training in the forests of Satara and Kolhapur. Their arrest foiled their alleged plans to carry out a bomb blast in Pune.
Abdul Qadir Dastgir Pathan was also arrested for providing shelter to the suspects. Further investigations led to the arrest of another individual from Ratnagiri, whose identity has not been disclosed yet. ATS has issued a notice to another suspect in connection with the case, summoning him for questioning.
