THRISSUR: NIA conducted widespread raids in Tamil Nadu following the arrest of Padoor native Ashis, and Palakkad Kottayi natives Rais, who led recruitment to the terrorist organization Islamic State. The raid was conducted in 24 centres and was focused on Usilampetti and Thanjavur districts.

SDPI state president Mubarak's residence at Tirunelveli Melapalayam is also being raided. The raid is part of the investigation related to the 2019 killing of Thiruppuvanam Ramalingam, a Vaniyar community activist. It is reported that important information was received from Ashis about these murders.

Ramalingam was hacked to death after he prevented forced conversion. Later, NIA took over the case. NIA arrested Ashis from Sathyamangalam forest area of Erode district last day. Later, Rais, who was part of his group, was also arrested.

Many documents were also seized during raids at four places in Thrissur and Palakkad districts. Security has been increased for some Hindu organizational and community leaders in Tamil Nadu.

There are five accused in the Ramalingam murder case. A reward of Rs 5 lakh has been announced for those who help in their capture.