The Assam Special Task Force (STF) achieved a significant breakthrough on December 30, 2024, by arresting 35-year-old Gazi Rahman in Kokrajhar district. Rahman is believed to have ties to two prominent jihadi organizations—Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT). These groups are infamous for their involvement in transnational terrorism, with activities spanning South Asia.
The arrest marks a critical point in “Operation Praghat,” a state-led initiative aimed at dismantling terror networks operating in Assam and neighboring states. Authorities revealed that Rahman is the 12th individual detained under this operation. Previous arrests linked to the mission have extended beyond Assam to West Bengal and Kerala, underscoring the pan-Indian nature of the crackdown.
According to officials, Rahman was allegedly recruiting locals to join jihadi organizations, raising concerns about sleeper cells and radicalization in the region. Kokrajhar, a district with a history of ethnic and communal tensions, has been under close surveillance due to the possibility of extremist infiltration.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has praised the STF for their relentless efforts and reiterated his government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism from the state. “This arrest sends a strong message that Assam will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt its peace and security,” the Chief Minister said during a press briefing.
Operation Praghat reflects Assam’s proactive approach to counterterrorism, combining intelligence-sharing, ground operations, and inter-state coordination. Security experts emphasize that continued vigilance and community outreach are critical to combating radical ideologies.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to trace Rahman’s broader network and any potential international connections.