New Delhi, August 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) is investigating the wider objectives of a suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed-linked module that was recently busted, with officials examining allegations that the network planned to recruit women for honey-trap operations targeting the sons of ministers in West Bengal and other states.
Investigators have so far found that the module was allegedly working towards building an influencer network, while also exploring other activities including espionage, disinformation campaigns and targeted operations.
According to officials, the module had a particular focus on West Bengal and was allegedly tasked by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) with targeting the state’s Chief Minister, expanding its influence network and recruiting operatives for honey-trap assignments.
“Setting honey traps was one of the main intentions of this module,” an official said.
Investigators believe the network was scouting for young women who could be recruited for such operations and were allegedly promised substantial payments. Officials said those recruited were allegedly instructed to target the sons of ministers.
The probe has also revealed allegations that the module was planning kidnappings of ministers’ sons and demanding large ransoms as part of an extortion strategy.
An Intelligence Bureau official said the working pattern of such newer modules was a matter of concern. Unlike earlier ISI-backed networks that primarily focused on procuring materials, preparing explosives and carrying out terror attacks, these modules were allegedly concentrating on influence operations, espionage, honey traps, abductions, extortion and targeted strikes.
Officials said such activities carry fewer operational risks compared to bomb attacks, which require extensive logistics and leave behind evidence that can help investigative agencies track perpetrators.
The investigation has also brought scrutiny on alleged recruitment of women influencers. Among those arrested by the STF is 22-year-old Arpita Sarkar from Jharkhand. Investigators are examining her alleged links with key accused Hamim Mondal of West Bengal, along with her digital records and frequent visits between Jharkhand and Kolkata.
The agencies are also probing alleged attempts by the module to incite violence at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and claims that its members were trying to procure police uniforms to establish contacts with influential individuals for gathering sensitive information.
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