Chennai: A few threat letters from a suspected Muslim fringe group ‘Base Movement’ in the name of Al Qaeda, has forced the jail authorities across the state to increase vigilance in prisons. “This group is known for sending such letters only. After the recent riots by Muslim inmates in Puzhal prison, six suspected militants were sent to six different jails. The threat letter could be a result of that,” sources said.
Superintendents of Central jails in Puzhal, Vellore, Coimbatore, Salem and Cuddalore have received letters from the outfit during the last two days. It had an Indian map with a picture of slain Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden along with a few sentences indicating they probably represent certain Muslim sections.
The contents also suggested that any kind of “ill-treatment” to the Muslim inmates could result in severe repercussions, sources added. The address found in the envelope was found to be fake. All the prison officials were advised to lodge complaints with the police in their jurisdiction.
Six alleged fundamentalists including Panna Ismail, ‘Police’ Fakruddin, Bilal Malik who were lodged in Puzhal facility were transferred to other central jails after the inmates lodged in high security block attacked wardens and jailors two weeks back. The letters, with the same content were posted from Ukkadam in Coimbatore a few days ago.
All the letters had the same message in English: “Distressed prisoners …Continues encroachment of prison department......government closed eyes ...inarticulate justice and courts....resonance will be in Tamil Nadu ...our mission started...count your days.”
The Coimbatore Central prison received the threat letter on October 8 claiming that the headquarters of the movement is in Kottaimedu in Coimbatore district. Police suspect the letter may have been sent by a few distressed prisoners to express their reservations against transfer of prisoners from Puzhal prison following an incident of assault.
Police traced an office located near a Madrasa from where the letter was posted and a further probe is on. “We are yet to ascertain the source of the letter,” a cop said.
