BENGALURU: Days after the arrest of suspected terrorists in the city, personnel belonging to investigating agencies allegedly visited their families, asking them to convince their children to confess their terror links. They had approached two families in the city, recently with the requests and assured them that the suspects would be freed if confessions are made in Court.
Speaking to Express, Irshad Desai, Convenor of Association of Protection of Civil Rights (APCR), who is providing legal assistance to the suspects, said that the families were shocked by the move by the investigating agencies. “The parents contacted us a few days ago about the visit. The police asked them to tell their children to confess in court, following which they will be freed,” Desai said.
However, the parents who were suspicious of the offer made by the Police, responded by saying that they would take a decision after consultation with their lawyers, he said. As of now, the families have decided not to pursue the proposal as it would ensure life imprisonment for their children. Explaining the move by the anti-terror agencies, Desai said they were resorting to such techniques as the statements made to the police during custody will not be accepted by the Court. “So, the police has approached parents and made the proposal,” he said. The parents approached APCR who advised against the proposal. Attempts made to contact National Investigation Agency on the issue did not bear fruit as calls and SMSes made remained unanswered.
Suspect calls family
It is also learnt that Najmul Huda, a suspect nabbed in Bengalaru, along with five others in the State, had called his family about ten days ago. According to his sister, who did not wish to be named, the call lasted for about two to three minutes during which he enquired about the health and well-being of the mother.