The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad has stepped up its investigation in a stabbing case in Mira Road, Mumbai, as investigators have discovered disturbing material that could indicate radicalization. Jaib Ansari, the 31-year-old science graduate accused of assaulting two security guards in a construction site was also arrested.
In a raid, conducted at the home of Ansari, police allegedly discovered handwritten notes talking about lone wolf attacks and a wish to join the Islamic State. Investigators claim that the accused explained the attack as his initial move towards identifying with a terrorist group, which is highly concerning in terms of the motivation of the attack.
According to police, Ansari had spent some years in the United States but had gone back to India because he had not been able to find stable jobs. He lived on his own in Mira Road and was working as a tutor of chemistry online. Officials feel that his long-term isolation could have led to his so-called radicalisation perhaps via online resources.
The Stabbing took place when Ansari walked to two security guards at one of the construction sites claiming he was asking them directions. He was said to have approached them and inquired of them their religion and asked them to recite a verse. He allegedly stabbed them when they refused and both were injured. It is known that the victims were Rajkumar Mishra and Subroto Sen who were working at the site at the time.
Investigators are currently examining the digital devices of Ansari to be able to trace any possible connections or communications. Authorities stated that the investigation is in progress to ascertain the motive and to understand whether it was a bigger network.