In 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) intensified its efforts against various threats including the Islamic State (IS), Jammu and Kashmir-based jihadis, and the nexus between terrorism and organized crime. A specific focus was placed on addressing offenses against Indian interests abroad, particularly the attacks on Indian diplomatic missions in Ottawa, London, and San Francisco.
The NIA adopted innovative methods, including crowd-sourcing, which led to the identification of 43 suspects linked to these attacks. Notably, the agency witnessed a commendable conviction rate of 94.70%, with 625 arrests made and assets worth approximately Rs 56 crore seized.
Throughout the year, the NIA significantly expanded its operations across India, resulting in a 28% increase in arrests compared to the previous year. The arrests encompassed various categories, including cases related to the Islamic State (IS), jihadi terror, and Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), totaling 65, 114, and 76 respectively.
In 2023, the NIA registered a total of 68 cases, encompassing a wide spectrum of terror-related incidents. This included charging 513 individuals, with 74 of them being convicted and sentenced to different terms of 'Rigorous Imprisonment' and 'Fines' as punishment.
The agency executed a total of 1,040 searches and raids, focusing strategically on disrupting terror financing and seizing assets acquired through illegal activities. Notably, 240 properties, including 156 bank accounts valued at Rs 55.90 crore, were attached and seized.
In a significant breakthrough, the NIA apprehended Dinesh Gope, the PLF Supremo, after evading arrest for two decades, showcasing the agency's persistence in pursuing long-standing cases.
Furthermore, the agency targeted offenses against Indian interests abroad, conducting more than 50 raids and searches to uncover the conspiracy behind the attacks on Indian Missions abroad. Additionally, the NIA made notable strides in combatting human trafficking, making significant arrests at the India-Bangladesh border.
In a crucial move, six individuals were designated as 'Individual Terrorists,' while four terrorist organizations, including The Resistance Force (TRF), People's Anti-Fascists Front (PAFF), Jammu & Kashmir Ghaznavi Force (JKGF), and Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), were banned based on NIA's proposals.
The NIA is actively pursuing necessary actions against these designated individuals and terrorist organizations to effectively counter their activities and maintain national security.
(With Agency Inputs)
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