NIA Intensifies Probe into SIM Box Racket in Odisha, Suspects Terror Links

Bhubaneswar: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrived in Odisha to investigate the recent busting of three SIM box setups in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Ranchi.

The agency is specifically looking into the alleged links of the prime accused, Raju Mandal, with a Bangladeshi handler, Asadur Jaman.

The Commissionerate Police, who initially uncovered the SIM box rackets, had earlier sought the assistance of the NIA and Interpol to probe potential terrorist connections. Raju Mandal, who is currently in Jharkhand, is suspected of being involved in cyber fraud and other illegal activities. The NIA is expected to take him on a five-day remand for further interrogation.

Reports indicate that a fourth SIM box setup has been discovered in West Bengal, raising concerns about the extent of the operation.

The SIM boxes were allegedly used to make international calls to countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey and others. This has led the authorities to suspect that Mandal and Jaman may have ties to terrorist organizations.

The NIA will begin its investigation in Odisha by visiting the locations in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack where the SIM boxes were operated. The agency will be examining various aspects of the case, including whether Mandal was involved in terrorist activities, shared confidential information with foreign entities, or had contact with agents of other countries.