Phones, Wi-Fi Gear, and Cash Seized from 2002 Kolkata American Centre Attack Convict’s Cell
Jail officials at Kolkata’s Presidency Correctional Home have recovered three mobile phones, networking equipment, electronic accessories, and cash from the cell of Aftab Ahmed Ansari, who is serving a life sentence for orchestrating the 2002 American Centre attack.
What Happened
According to prison officials, a targeted search of cell number 14 was conducted following intelligence reports that Ansari had internet access and was using a mobile phone within the correctional home. During the operation, authorities uncovered three mobile phones concealed inside his bedding and clothing.
In addition to the communication devices, officials seized two routers, a separate Wi-Fi unit, an earphone, and a pen drive. A total of ₹31,000 in cash, comprised entirely of ₹500 currency notes, was also recovered from the premises.
Following the discovery, correctional home authorities submitted a formal complaint to the Hastings Police Station. Police have registered a case regarding the incident and initiated an inquiry.
Key Highlights
- Inmate Involved: Aftab Ahmed Ansari, convicted mastermind of the 2002 American Centre attack, serving a life sentence.
- Location: Cell number 14, Presidency Correctional Home in Kolkata.
- Items Confiscated: Three mobile phones, two routers, one Wi-Fi device, one pen drive, an earphone, and ₹31,000 in ₹500 notes.
- Official Action: Complaint lodged with Hastings Police Station, prompting a formal police investigation.
Why This Matters
The seizure indicates an unauthorized presence of telecommunications and internet infrastructure inside a high-security correctional facility. Because Ansari was found with functioning connectivity equipment, investigating authorities are examining whether international communications took place from inside the cell.
What to Watch Next
Hastings Police Station investigators are examining the recovered devices to establish their usage history. In particular, officials confirmed that authorities are working to determine if phone calls were made from the facility to contacts located outside India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Aftab Ahmed Ansari?
Ansari is a convict serving a life sentence for his role as the mastermind of the 2002 American Centre attack in Kolkata.
What specific devices were confiscated from his cell?
Officials seized three mobile phones, two routers, a Wi-Fi device, a pen drive, an earphone, and ₹31,000 in cash.
Which police station is investigating the matter?
The Hastings Police Station registered the case following a complaint filed by Presidency Correctional Home authorities.
Source: Based on reporting from PTI as published by The Hindu.