Smart phones, Wi-Fi routers, cash seized from cell of Aftab Ansari, mastermind of 2002 American Centre-attack: Official

Authorities in Kolkata have seized smartphones, Wi-Fi equipment, and nearly ₹31,000 in cash from the cell of Aftab Ahmed Ansari, the mastermind behind the 2002 American Centre attack, according to officials. The items were discovered during a search at the Presidency Correctional Home, where Ansari is currently serving a life sentence. The discovery prompted jail authorities to file a complaint with the Hastings Police Station, leading to the registration of a criminal case and the initiation of an investigation into the matter. The search took place following intelligence reports suggesting that Ansari had access to a mobile phone and the internet within the prison. According to a correctional home official, three mobile phones were found hidden in Ansari's clothing and bedding, along with two routers, a Wi-Fi device, a pen drive, and an earphone. In addition, ₹31,000 in cash, all in ₹500 denomination notes, was found in his cell. Investigators are examining whether Ansari received phone calls from individuals abroad, potentially linking him to external networks. The seizure occurred during a surprise raid on August 23, though the formal case was registered only on August 29. Officials confirmed that the operation uncovered a range of electronic communication devices, including three smartphones, among them an iPhone, and three SIM cards. Additional items included two routers, a Wi-Fi hotspot, two card readers, a pen drive, wireless earbuds, an OTG adapter, and various cables. These findings suggest that Ansari may have maintained regular contact with the outside world despite being confined to a high-security facility. The incident follows a broader crackdown on illicit activities within the Presidency Correctional Home. Earlier this year, the West Bengal government suspended the superintendent and chief controller of the facility due to allegations that inmates were using mobile phones inside the prison. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had previously stated that smartphones were being widely used in the jail, with some officials complicit in facilitating their use. During joint operations involving prison authorities and the Kolkata Police, 23 mobile phones were reportedly seized from the jail premises. Ansari's conviction stems from the deadly attack on the American Centre in Kolkata on January 22, 2002. Two motorbike-borne attackers opened fire on security personnel, killing five people, including four police constables, and injuring 20 others. His role as the mastermind of the attack led to his sentencing to life imprisonment. The current seizure raises concerns about the potential for continued criminal activity or influence from within the prison system. Officials have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on determining how Ansari obtained the devices and whether they were used to communicate with individuals beyond the prison walls. The presence of multiple communication tools suggests a deliberate attempt to circumvent prison restrictions. Authorities are also looking into the possibility of collusion among jail staff, given previous reports of similar incidents. The case highlights persistent challenges in maintaining strict control over prison environments, particularly regarding the smuggling of contraband. Despite measures aimed at preventing such occurrences, the repeated recovery of electronic devices indicates vulnerabilities in the system. As the investigation progresses, officials will likely scrutinize both the chain of custody surrounding the seized items and the internal protocols of the correctional home to prevent future breaches. The Hastings Police Station has taken charge of the case, and further details are expected to emerge as the probe continues. Meanwhile, the correctional home remains under heightened scrutiny, with pressure mounting on its administration to ensure compliance with security protocols.