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In a major breakthrough, the Delhi Police successfully arrested Hanif Shaikh, a member of the banned outfit SIMI (Students Islamic Movement of India), culminating a 22-year-long manhunt. The arrest unfolded in Bhusawal, Maharashtra, shedding light on the extensive efforts and challenges faced by the police during the search for the accused.
Hanif Shaikh, a SIMI member, had been evading authorities for 22 years after facing charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and sedition in 2001.
Role in SIMI and Radicalization
Shaikh served as the editor of the ‘Islamic Movement’ magazine’s Urdu edition, contributing to the radicalization of several young Muslims over the past 25 years through his teachings.
Initial Challenges and Clues
The police initially had limited information, with only the name “Hanif Hudai” published in the magazine “Islamic Movement” as a clue.
Living in Maharashtra’s Bhusawal, Shaikh changed his identity to Mohammad Hanif, complicating the search for the fugitive.
Delhi Police Arrests SIMI Terrorist Hanif Shaikh. The police, armed with information that Shaikh had adopted a new identity, laid a trap on February 22 in Bhusawal, Maharashtra, resulting in his arrest. Shaikh, who was working as a teacher at an Urdu medium municipal school, had changed his identity to evade capture.
Shaikh’s Background and Activities
Hanif Shaikh joined SIMI in 1997, becoming an “Ansar (full-time worker).” He played a significant role in organizing SIMI’s meetings in various states and was declared a fugitive in 2002.
As the editor of the Urdu edition of ‘Islamic Movement,’ he wrote inflammatory articles highlighting alleged atrocities against Muslims.
Shaikh, who had close relationships with other SIMI members, managed to escape during a police raid in 2001.
Post-Ban Activities and Networks
After the ban on SIMI, Hanif Shaikh continued his activities, maintaining connections with members of the Wahdat-e-Islam organization.
He played a crucial role in collecting funds for SIMI and Wahdat-e-Islam, using donations to support their radical agenda.
Family and Personal Details:
Hanif Shaikh has five siblings, a wife, and three children.
His arrest brings a long and exhaustive manhunt to a close, underscoring the persistence and determination of law enforcement in pursuing individuals linked to banned organizations.
