Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) confirms that Arshid Qureshi, who was arrested on Thursday for allegedly indoctrinating Kerala youths to join IS, is their employee. A source close to IRF which was founded by controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik told India Today that Qureshi has been working with them in Mumbai as a guest relations manager.

Qureshi who has been working for several years with IRF was the first person to meet if anyone approached the institution. He was picked from his house in Navi Mumbai on Thursday afternoon.

Palarivattom police who is investigating the case of missing 21 youths from Kerala who are suspected to have joined Islamic State (IS), recorded statement of Ebin Jacob (25), the brother of Merin alias Mariam, a woman who is missing along with her husband Bestin Vincent alias Yahia.



QURESHI'S INVOLVEMENT IN FORCED CONVERSION

According to sources in IRF, Jacob alleged that he was forced to convert to Islam and join IS in 2014 by his brother-in-law Bestin and Qureshi. He also alleged that his sister was also forcefully converted in IRF by Bestin.

After this statement a case under Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and under Section 153 (A) of IPC was registered against Bestin and Qureshi. IRF sources have said that they do not support forceful conversion and Qureshi was not assigned to convert people.

IRF DISMISSES ALLEGATIONS

"Firstly forceful conversions in Mumbai is not possible. Second allegations suggest that the youths were indoctrinated for IS in 2014. Nobody was aware of IS till that time. How can Qureshi sent them to the terrorist organisation two and a half years ago? We think at this point it is just an allegation by some third person, " said a person close to IRF.

He added that Qureshi has been taken to Kochi to record his statement in the case. According to the IRF staffer, Qureshi does not remember any of the names and people mentioned. The non-profit organization's representative said that they will support Qureshi till there is any evidence suggesting his involvement in the case. He further added that the ongoing issues and branding was a part of a conspiracy against IRF.

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Youth associated with Zakir Naiks foundation arrested

