Kerala Police have arrested a 25-year-old man from Assam for allegedly attempting to spread extremist ideas through social media platforms. Officials confirmed the arrest on Wednesday and said the action followed sustained monitoring of online content linked to radical messaging.
The accused, identified as Roshidul Islam, was taken into custody on Tuesday from the limits of the Kaipamangalam police station in central Kerala. According to police officials, the arrest forms part of wider efforts to curb online radicalisation and prevent the circulation of extremist propaganda.
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Arrest follows online surveillance
Police officials said they arrested the Assam man after tracking suspicious social media activity over a period of time. Investigators claimed the accused used online platforms to share and amplify extremist content that could influence vulnerable users.
Based on preliminary findings, authorities believe the posts aimed to provoke radical thinking rather than casual political expression. Therefore, the police moved swiftly to prevent further dissemination of such content.
After the arrest, officers seized electronic devices belonging to the accused. These devices will undergo forensic examination to determine the extent of his online activities.
Identity and location of the accused
The arrested individual has been identified as Roshidul Islam, a native of Assam. At the time of his arrest, he was residing within the Kaipamangalam police station limits in central Kerala.
Officials said they are verifying the purpose of his stay in the state and examining whether he had local contacts. So far, investigators have not confirmed any organisational links, although they continue to examine all possible angles.
Police stressed that the arrest does not target any community. Instead, it focuses solely on alleged actions linked to extremist propaganda.
Nature of the alleged social media posts
According to investigators, the accused allegedly shared content that promoted extremist ideology and glorified radical narratives. Police said the posts could disturb social harmony if left unchecked.
Officials added that online radicalisation poses a serious threat because of its wide reach and speed. Therefore, law enforcement agencies closely monitor digital platforms for such activities.
At this stage, police have not disclosed the exact content of the posts, citing the ongoing investigation. However, they confirmed that the material raised red flags during routine cyber surveillance.
Legal action and investigation underway
Following his arrest, police registered a case under relevant sections of law dealing with extremist propaganda and misuse of digital platforms. The accused was produced before a court, which granted police custody for further questioning.
During interrogation, officers will seek to determine whether the accused acted alone or followed external influence. They will also examine whether he attempted to recruit or influence others through his posts.
Kerala Police said they are coordinating with central agencies and Assam Police as part of the investigation. Such coordination, officials said, helps track digital footprints across state boundaries.
Growing concern over online radicalisation
The arrest comes amid growing concern over the misuse of social media to spread extremist ideas. Security agencies across the country have warned that online platforms increasingly serve as tools for radical messaging.
Experts say individuals often encounter such content gradually, making early intervention critical. Therefore, law enforcement agencies have strengthened cyber monitoring mechanisms to detect warning signs.
Kerala Police reiterated that freedom of expression does not extend to promoting violence or extremist ideologies. Officials urged citizens to report suspicious online activity promptly.
Police appeal to the public
Following the arrest, police appealed to social media users to act responsibly. They urged people to verify information before sharing content and avoid engaging with radical material.
Officials also encouraged parents and educators to remain alert to online behaviour among young users. Awareness, they said, plays a key role in preventing radicalisation.
Meanwhile, police assured that they would continue lawful action against anyone attempting to misuse digital platforms for extremist purposes.
Way forward
As the investigation progresses, authorities expect forensic analysis of seized devices to provide clearer insights. Police said further arrests could follow if evidence points to a wider network.
The case highlights the increasing challenges posed by online extremism and the need for constant vigilance. For now, the arrest of the Assam man in Kerala underscores the state’s firm stance against attempts to spread extremist ideas through social media.
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