UP man held under Explosive Substances Act; ISIS links under probe

A man identified as Rizwan has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district under provisions of the Explosive Substances Act, with security agencies probing his suspected links to the Islamic State.

According to police officials, the arrest was made following intelligence inputs suggesting possible extremist connections. Authorities said Rizwan is suspected to have been in contact with individuals linked to radical networks, though no direct operational link has been confirmed so far.

He has been booked under sections related to possession and potential use of explosive materials. Investigators are examining electronic devices, call records, and online activity to establish whether he had any active role in planning or facilitating unlawful activities.

Officials indicated that the probe is still at a preliminary stage, and agencies are working to determine whether Rizwan was acting independently or as part of a wider network. They have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests as the investigation progresses.

The case has drawn attention due to the suspected ISIS angle, although authorities have maintained that conclusions will be based strictly on evidence recovered during the investigation. Security agencies have increased vigilance in the region following the arrest.

Meanwhile, Rizwan’s father has publicly stated that strict action should be taken if his son is found guilty. He said the family is cooperating with the investigation and added that the law should take its course if any wrongdoing is proven.

The Explosive Substances Act, under which Rizwan has been booked, deals with offences related to the manufacture, possession, and use of explosives, and carries stringent penalties upon conviction.

Officials reiterated that further details will emerge only after a thorough examination of evidence, and cautioned against drawing premature conclusions at this stage.