'Active on dark web'; Investigative officers about arrested Malayali journalist Rejaz

MUMBAI: Investigating officers confirmed that the Malayali journalist arrested for criticizing Operation Sindoor’ was highly active on the dark web. Rejaz M. Sheeba Sydeek, a native of Edappally, an activist and journalist, was arrested in the incident.

It was during the initial investigation that police found out about Rejaz’s addiction to dark web, where he used to post provocative statements. Digital devices, including his mobile phone, have been sent to the cyber forensics lab for further investigation. UAPA has been charged against the youngster.

Rejaz was arrested from a hotel in Nagpur. He has been charged with waging war against the government and inciting riots. The FIR also states that the youngster had links to the CPI-Maoist organization. During the search conducted at the house, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) took into custody several documents including mobile phones and pen drives. Several books propagating extremist ideas were also recovered.

Rejaz had led a demonstration in Panampilly Nagar, Ernakulam, on April 29 against the Indian government’s decision to demolish houses of militants who abetted in the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Ernakulam South police arrested eight people, including him, in the incident and released them on bail.

The ATS has also collected information about this case. Rejaz was arrested alongside his girlfriend in Maharashtra but the latter was soon released.