Hyderabad-based doctor planned mass poisoning: NIA chargesheet in Ahmedabad
Who are the defendants
According to the agency’s statement issued on Tuesday, the accused include Hyderabad-based doctor Syed Ahmed Mohiuddin, along with Azad and Mohammad Suhel from Uttar Pradesh. Investigators allege the trio worked together under the instructions of foreign-born executives with ties to the Islamic State.
The agency said the defendants allegedly recruited radicalized vulnerable youth to support extremist activities and spread fear through prohibited weapons and bioterrorism methods.
What was the alleged plan?
The NIA said the group planned to use ricin, a toxin derived from castor seeds and classified under Annex I of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The substance is considered to be quite dangerous even in small amounts.
Authorities described the alleged plot as part of “ISIS’s nefarious agenda.”
How did the case develop?
The case first came to light in November 2025, when the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested Mohiuddin at a toll plaza. He was reportedly found carrying illegal weapons, a bottle containing four liters of castor oil and other suspicious items in his car.
Further investigation by ATS led to the arrest of Azad and Suhel on the same day.
Movement of money and weapons
The investigation revealed that Azad and Suhel allegedly collected packages containing money and prohibited weapons from a dead-end location in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. They then left these items at a place in Chhatral, Gujarat for Mohiuddin to pick up.
Inside the alleged network
The NIA, which took over the investigation in January 2026, said it had uncovered deeper links within the group. The agency claimed that Mohiuddin was promised the position of ISIS’ South Asia “Chief” by his manager.
Investigators also alleged that he turned his home in Hyderabad into a secret scheme to prepare ricin.
Roles of co-defendants
The agency said Azad and Suhel were aware of the larger conspiracy and were actively involved. Their duties reportedly included maintaining communication with administrators, managing funds linked to terrorist activities, conducting reconnaissance and handling illegal weapons.
Suhel, in particular, was described as an important link between the administrator and other members. He allegedly helped manage recruitment, coordination, and shipment of funds and weapons. The NIA also said it had recorded Bay’ah (pledge of allegiance) videos and prepared ISIS flags.
bigger picture
The case highlights concerns about the use of unconventional methods such as bioterrorism in extremist plots. Investigators believe the defendants attempted to establish a network combining radicalization, logistical and chemical threats in a coordinated manner.
The matter is currently in special court, where further proceedings will determine the course of the case.
