Early Times Report
Jammu, Mar 18: Police arrested a former stone-pelter, identified as Showkat Ahmad Dar, on Tuesday for allegedly using social media to spread radical content aimed at glorifying terrorism, inciting anti-national sentiments, and disturbing peace in the Kashmir Valley. The arrest took place in the Shalimar area of Srinagar district, following a swift operation by the Counter-Intelligence Wing Kashmir (CIK) of J&K Police.
According to a CIK statement, the arrest stemmed from credible intelligence and ongoing social media surveillance, which pinpointed Dar as the operator of a radical Facebook handle, ‘Shaddy Kashmir Dryfruits.’ The account was being used to disseminate extremist propaganda targeting impressionable youth. “The accused was actively posting and sharing content to glorify terrorism, terrorist commanders, and anti-national elements,” a CIK spokesperson said.
The investigation was triggered by inputs about suspicious online activity, leading to the identification of Dar, a resident of Doodh Mohalla, Shalimar, and son of Ghulam Ahmad Dar. Despite challenges posed by his frequent movement, a coordinated ground strategy culminated in his arrest, along wi The account was being used to disseminate extremist propaganda targeting impressionable youth.
The accused was actively posting and sharing content to glorify terrorism.
Dar was previously arrested in 2019 by Harwan Police Station for stone-pelting.
He was detained in 2022 by Srinagar’s Cyber Police Station for disseminating radical content online.
Dar’s history of radical behavior adds weight to the case. He was previously arrested in 2019 by Harwan Police Station for stone-pelting and detained in 2022 by Srinagar’s Cyber Police Station for disseminating radical content online. “This arrest highlights our relentless efforts to curb online radicalization,” the CIK spokesperson noted.
The operation reflects broader efforts by security and intelligence agencies in J&K, working in tandem with social media companies. At the request of local intelligence units, platforms like Facebook have established dedicated teams to monitor and report radical propaganda in the region. These collaborations have proven vital in dismantling radical modules and identifying potential threats.
The J&K Police emphasized their commitment to safeguarding youth from extremist influences, with investigations ongoing to probe Dar’s network and associates. Further legal action will follow as per the law, the statement concluded. | 