In a significant development, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Abdul Rahaman, a key figure in the Praveen Nettaru murder case. The arrest occurred at Kannur International Airport following Rahaman’s return from Qatar. The NIA stated this arrest marks a major advancement in the probe into the killing of BJP Yuva Morcha member Praveen Nettaru, allegedly carried out by members of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). The NIA had previously arrested Ateeq Ahmed, also a key accused, earlier this year. Investigations revealed that Ateeq had aided Mustafa Paichar, the primary conspirator, in the execution of the murder, which was part of PFI’s broader plan to incite fear and unrest. Following the attack, Mustafa went into hiding, with Ateeq providing support, including helping him travel to Chennai. The NIA’s investigation, initiated in August 2022, uncovered the existence of ‘PFI Service Teams’ trained for targeted killings, such as the one involving Nettaru. The crime took place in Bellare village, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka.
