Gujarat ATS Foils Major Terror Plot: Man Planned Mass Poisoning Attack Using Deadly “Ricin”

Introduction

New Delhi / Ahmedabad:
In a major counter-terror success, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a man accused of planning a mass poisoning attack in India using ricin, one of the deadliest biological toxins in the world.

Officials say the accused was allegedly radicalised through extremist content online and had been researching ways to extract ricin from castor plant seeds. His aim, according to investigators, was to spread the toxin in crowded public places by contaminating food and drinking water.

⚠️ What Was the Plan?

During the raid, ATS recovered:

• Notes and printed documents on ricin extraction,
• Digital chats with suspicious accounts on encrypted apps,
• Possible target lists in cities like Ahmedabad, Lucknow and Delhi.

Investigators say the accused planned to execute a biological attack that could cause mass deaths without drawing immediate attention.

“The intention was not an explosion, but a silent mass-casualty attack,”
said an ATS officer.

🧪 What Is Ricin?

Ricin is classified as a biological warfare agent.

• It has no smell, no taste, and no antidote.
• Even a few milligrams can kill within 36–48 hours.
• Once ingested, the toxin shuts down vital organs like liver and kidneys.

Security experts say ricin attacks are dangerous because victims don’t realise they’ve been poisoned until it’s too late.

🔍 How the Plot Unfolded

Digital footprint played a key role in cracking the case.

ATS tracked suspicious online activity, which led them to the accused:

• He was part of extremist chat groups,
• Was receiving instructions on ricin extraction,
• Searched for ways to avoid law enforcement surveillance.

Officials believe he may have been influenced by international extremist networks, and communication with unknown handlers is now being verified.

🚔 Possible Links to a Larger Network

After the arrest, central agencies including:

• NIA (National Investigation Agency)
• IB (Intelligence Bureau)

were alerted. Investigators are now checking whether more individuals were involved or if this was part of a sleeper-cell type operation.

Security has been increased at:

• Transport hubs,
• Religious gatherings,
• Major public festivals and events.

🛑 Attack Prevented Just in Time

Authorities say the foiled plot could have resulted in mass casualties across multiple states.

“This was not just terrorism. It was the attempted use of a biological weapon.”
— Senior ATS official

The accused remains in custody, and teams are now verifying digital evidence and potential associates.

✅ Why This Case Matters

This is one of the rare cases in India involving a biological agent instead of explosives. Experts say it marks a disturbing trend where radicalised individuals may attempt attacks that are silent, invisible and harder to detect.

The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are likely if links to a wider network are confirmed.