Mangaluru, : In a major development, Mangaluru City Police have arrested a Muslim cleric from Kadaba for allegedly promoting the banned extremist organization Popular Front of India (PFI) and attempting to revive its activities through social media.
The arrested cleric has been identified as Syed Ibrahim Thangal, a native of Kadaba in Dakshina Kannada district. According to police sources, Thangal had been in contact with underground members of PFI and was actively involved in spreading propaganda about the organization through various social media platforms.
Investigations revealed that Thangal had created a WhatsApp group named “Salaman Salama”, where he reportedly shared messages glorifying the banned outfit and coordinated with absconding PFI operatives. Through this online network, he allegedly attempted to motivate members to regroup and restart PFI’s underground activities.
Based on credible intelligence, the Mangaluru police detained Thangal near Urwa Store, seizing his mobile phone for digital forensic analysis. Following interrogation, he was produced before the Special NIA Court, which remanded him to judicial custody until October 24, 2025.
Police officials stated that the cleric’s digital footprints and chat records indicate attempts to reconnect and reorganize banned cadres, an act considered a serious violation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Authorities are also investigating whether Thangal received external funding or ideological support from overseas handlers or former PFI members still at large.
PFI and its background
The Popular Front of India (PFI) was formed in 2006, originally claiming to work for the social, educational, and economic upliftment of Muslims and other marginalized groups. However, over time, it was accused of engaging in radicalization, violent activities, and anti-national propaganda.
In September 2022, the Government of India banned the PFI and its affiliates for five years, citing their involvement in terror funding, communal violence, and attempts to destabilize the nation’s unity and integrity. The organization was linked to several violent incidents, including the brutal killing of BJP Yuva Morcha leader Praveen Nettaru in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district on July 26, 2022, which drew nationwide outrage.
Following the ban, multiple PFI leaders and activists were arrested across India in joint operations by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and local police forces. Despite the crackdown, intelligence reports suggested that some members had gone underground and were trying to revive the outfit through digital and covert networks.
