The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) has arrested a Srinagar resident for allegedly posting extremist content on social media, officials said on Tuesday.
In a statement, a CIK spokesperson said the individual was operating a radical Facebook handle, ‘Shaddy Kashmir Dryfruits’, which was being used to spread extremist propaganda with the intent of disturbing peace.
“Upon receiving input about the online activity, a swift investigation was launched, social media handle was resolved leading to the identification of the suspect as Showkat Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Ahmad Dar, a resident of Doodh Mohalla, Shalimar, Srinagar,” the statement read.
According to the CIK, Dar was actively engaged in sharing content that glorified terrorism and its commanders while inciting anti-national sentiments among youth. Security forces faced challenges in tracking him due to his frequent movement, but a coordinated operation led to his arrest along with his electronic devices.
A preliminary inspection of his digital records revealed access to the radical Facebook account, as well as incriminating material, including a video of slain terrorist commander Zakir Musa and other extremist propaganda.
The CIK further stated that Dar had a history of radical activities. “He was previously arrested in 2019 by Harwan Police Station of Srinagar for involvement in stone-pelting incidents. Additionally, in 2022, he was detained by Cyber Police Station Srinagar for engaging in the online dissemination of radical content,” the statement added.
The agency also highlighted ongoing efforts by intelligence units and social media companies to monitor and curb radical propaganda in Jammu and Kashmir. “On the request of intelligence agencies in Jammu and Kashmir, all the social media service providers have established special units to monitor the radical propaganda especially in J&K. The moment any such radical activity is witnessed by their monitoring unit, it is reported to the security agencies immediately,” the spokesperson said.
These coordinated efforts, according to the CIK, have helped bust several radical modules and identify potential threats in the region.
