NIA Arrests Mohammed Asim In Chennai For Sheltering Praveen Nettaru Murder Suspects Linked To Terror Org PFI

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids on 5 December 2024, across 16 locations in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, as part of its investigation into the murder of BJP leader Praveen Nettaru.

In Chennai, officials apprehended Mohammed Asim (39), a resident of Doctor Radhakrishnan Nagar in Thiruvottriyur. They searched his residence and seized materials before he was taken into custody. Asim is reportedly the proprietor of TC Traders Mats & Rugs, a business based in Tondiarpet.

The operation extended to Bengaluru, Kodagu in Karnataka, Ernakulam in Kerala, and other locations. Praveen Nettaru, a BJP Yuva Morcha district executive committee member, was brutally hacked to death by two motorcycle-borne attackers in Bellare village, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka, on 26 July 2022. According to the NIA, members of the banned terror outfit Popular Front of India (PFI) were allegedly involved in the crime, which was intended to spread fear among specific sections of society.

The NIA began its investigation after taking over the case from local police on 4 August 2022. Searches targeted premises associated with absconding suspects, accused individuals, and their associates. The agency recovered several digital devices and incriminating documents.

The NIA has arrested 19 individuals in connection with the case and filed charge sheets against 23 accused, including four still at large. According to the NIA’s statement, non-bailable warrants and rewards have been issued for seven absconding suspects.

(With inputs from DT Next)

Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.