THRISSUR: The global terrorist group IS had planned a Bengaluru-style terror attack including major cities in Kerala in response to the banning of the Popular Front. This shocking revelation comes from the statement of Shia Siddique who was arrested in Kattur on Saturday. He was presented in the NIA court and remanded for 30 days. He will be taken into custody and questioned again next week.

It's also known that IS has operatives in all districts. Ashif, who was arrested in Sathyamangalam, also provided the same statement. Over 30 individuals including those who communicated through the Telegram group are under NIA surveillance.

Additionally, there are reports that this group has targeted places of worship and certain community leaders in Kerala. The aim was to spread terror and foment communal division in the state. The residences of Ashif, Syed Nabeel Ahmed, Shias from Thrissur and Raees from Palakkad who were arrested on July 19. Their phones and laptops were confiscated.

Many individuals closely related to the accused have been brought to the Kochi NIA office for questioning. Further arrests are likely in the upcoming days.