Three Most-Wanted Terrorists Arrested After Nearly 30 Years On The Run By Tamil Nadu ATS

After evading law enforcement for nearly three decades, three most-wanted terrorists-Sadiq Ali (alias Tailor Raja), Mohammed Ali Mansoor, and Abubacker Siddique-have been apprehended by the Tamil Nadu Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). These individuals were linked to multiple high-profile terror cases across Tamil Nadu and adjoining states, including the 1998 Coimbatore serial bomb blasts that claimed over 50 lives and injured hundreds.

The arrests mark a major breakthrough in counter-terrorism efforts, ending one of the country's longest terror manhunts. The suspects had been living covertly under assumed identities and managed to avoid detection for years by blending into local communities.

High-Tech Ops Across States Led to Capture

The arrests were part of two coordinated crackdowns-Operation Aram and Operation Agazhi-spearheaded by the Tamil Nadu ATS. These operations combined long-term human surveillance with cutting-edge technology, including AI-generated facial sketches and advanced tracking systems. Collaboration with the Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh police departments played a key role in successfully executing the arrests.

Sadiq Ali, who operated under the alias Tailor Raja, was apprehended in Vijayapura, Karnataka. Meanwhile, Mohammed Ali Mansoor and Abubacker Siddique were tracked down and arrested in Kadappa district, Andhra Pradesh.

False Identities and Deep Cover Tactics

To evade arrest, the three fugitives had adopted new identities and occupations-posing as tailors, textile store owners, and petty traders. Their integration into local communities allowed them to stay below the radar for decades, making the investigation particularly challenging.

Officials described the arrests as a significant achievement in India's long-standing effort to bring justice to the victims of terrorism. Further investigations are underway to uncover any active links or sleeper cells associated with the arrested men.