Heightened security arrangements are in place across Tamil Nadu, particularly in the western districts, following intelligence inputs from a central agency on a terror module planning to target vital installations in South India.

Police sources said a three-member cell named ‘Abu Alqital’ was formed to target upscale restaurants, places of worship, shopping malls and vital installations.

The suspects, believed to be Islamic State (IS) operatives, were active on internet-enabled voice calls and messaging platforms.

The agency noted increased cyber activity in the name of IS by way of content being posted in various cyber groups, warning of imminent terror attacks in India. These groups witnessed a steady increase in membership following the dissemination of such information, police sources told The Hindu on Wednesday.

While no specific target or location was mentioned, posts made in closed online groups spoke of the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), vehicles and small arms to carry out attacks. Considering the affiliation of the groups with organisations like the IS, the agency said crowded markets, places of religious congregation, tourist spots and other iconic places were among the likely targets.

(The Hindu)