Football clubs as radicalisation front: Probe finds large network in Maharashtra

Anti-terror raids were held at 21 locations in Maharashtra after receiving inputs about a suspected network allegedly targeting Muslim youths interested in football for radicalisation.

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has uncovered what officials describe as a large-scale suspected radicalisation network allegedly targeting Muslim youths with an interest in football in Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar districts. The agency carried out extensive raids at 21 locations earlier this week, detaining several suspects after receiving a tip-off about alleged terror-linked activities. During the searches, officials also seized swords and a range of other materials.

According to investigators, boys from the Pusad region who were keen on football or actively involved in the sport were allegedly being selectively identified and targeted. Pusad has a significant number of Muslim children and teenagers drawn to football, with several local clubs operating in the area.

Officials suspect that certain football-related platforms were being used to identify, influence and indoctrinate vulnerable youths.

The probe has also indicated that some of the boys were reportedly sent outside Maharashtra as part of the suspected radicalisation process, raising further security concerns.

Details of the alleged activities emerged during the Anti-Terrorism Squad's search operations carried out at multiple locations across Yavatmal and Ahilyanagar districts.

However, no case has been registered so far, and the matter remains under detailed investigation. Officials said further action would depend on the analysis of materials seized during the raids, which include electronic devices, CCTV footage and documents suspected to be incriminating.