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NIA investigates Naik's involvement in inspiring terrorists

by IBNS 04 Aug 2016, 08:57 pm

Mumbai, Aug 5 (IBNS): The trouble is far from over for Islamic Preacher Zakir Naik, as the National Investigation Agency (NIA) suspects his role in inspiring at least 50 terror accused and suspects, media reports said.

Naik was earlier handed a clean chit by Maharashtra State Intelligence Department (SID), but contrary to reports, the NIA said they have identified at least 50 people who were incited by his speeches, though they are not yet ready to jump into a conclusion.

The Mumbai Mirror quoted an NIA officer as saying, "We have identified at least 50 people who admitted to have been inspired by Naik. However, it is too early to say whether Naik can be directly linked to terrorist activities."

A parallel investigation is also being carried by the Mumbai police force.

Naik came to the limelight after the ghastly Dhaka restaurant terror attack. One of the captured terrorists had reportedly said that the preacher had inspired him to carry forward the attack.

His statement had a severe affect on the televangelist's reputation as his channel Peace TV was brought down by both the Indian and Bangladeshi governments.

However, Naik has filed a defamation case against Times Now and its Editor-in-Chief Arnab Goswami claiming hefty damages.