The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted multiple coordinated raids across Kerala on Wednesday in connection with cases linked to the banned organization Popular Front of India (PFI). The agency carried out searches at at least nine locations, seizing digital devices, crucial documents, and allegedly suspicious materials.

NIA officials stated that the action is part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged jihadist conspiracy and criminal plot, a case that was first registered in September 2022. According to the charges, PFI allegedly conspired to promote violent jihad in India, radicalize youth, and destabilize the country.

Some media reports claim that the investigation revealed PFI leaders and activists were preparing youth for weapons training and raising funds for violent activities. The agency reportedly said that the organization had established structures such as a ‘Reporters Wing,’ ‘Physical and Arms Training Wing,’ and ‘Service Teams or Hit Teams’ to advance its purportedly malicious agenda.

Media reports further suggest that the raids uncovered ongoing training programs at PFI campuses and facilities, which were ostensibly run under the guise of physical education and yoga, but allegedly included weapons training. The ‘Hit Teams’ were reportedly being trained to target specific individuals.

The NIA said the investigation is ongoing and the agency is gathering further evidence to map the entire network and reach potential absconding members.

PFI was banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in September 2022. Several social, political, and human rights organizations have criticized the ban as baseless, claiming it was part of a larger effort to suppress dissent and silence the voices of Muslims and other marginalized communities.