The Anti Terrorism Squad of Maharashtra Police has invoked provisions of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act in the Mira Road stabbing case, even as the defence told a Thane court that the accused suffers from schizophrenia.
Zaib Zuber Ansari was produced before the court on Monday, where ATS officials informed the judge that Section 16 of UAPA, which deals with punishment for terrorist acts, had been invoked.
The accused had earlier been booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for attempt to murder, causing grievous hurt with a weapon, and promoting enmity between religious groups.
ATTACK AFTER RELIGIOUS QUESTIONING
According to investigators, Ansari allegedly attacked two security guards at a construction site in Nayanagar, Mira Road, last week.
Police said he asked the guards about their religion and demanded that they recite the kalma. When they failed to do so, he allegedly stabbed them with a knife.
DIGITAL TRAIL UNDER SCANNER
Investigators said material recovered from Ansari’s residence and devices is being examined for possible links to extremist propaganda.
Officials told the court that videos related to ISIS Syria and similar content were found on his devices. His search history on mobile phones and laptops is also under scrutiny.
Further analysis of his communications and emails is being carried out through forensic laboratories to determine whether he was influenced by or in contact with others.
ATS SEEKS CUSTODY, PROBES POSSIBLE LINKS
The ATS sought further custody of the accused, saying he needs to be confronted with forensic data retrieved from his devices.
Investigators said Ansari had deleted significant data from his mobile phone before his arrest. A mirror image of the device has since been obtained for detailed analysis.
The agency is also examining whether he may have influenced others, as he conducted online classes for students in the UAE and other countries.
WIFE’S ROLE UNDER PROBE
The role of Ansari’s estranged wife is also under scrutiny. According to ATS, she is an American of Afghan origin, and investigators are probing whether she had any role in alleged radicalisation.
Ansari had separated from his wife last year, and the divorce was finalised in February.
DEFENCE SEEKS MEDICAL EVALUATION
During the hearing, defence lawyers told the court that Ansari’s parents had said he suffers from schizophrenia and requires medical assessment.
The court directed the ATS to conduct a medical evaluation and remanded Ansari to ATS custody till May 11.
– Ends
Published By:
Sonali Verma
Published On:
May 5, 2026 18:37 IST
