Men Radicalised Online and Linked to the Israel-Hamas Conflict, Authorities Say

The Internal Security Department (ISD) of Singapore has detained three individuals under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for planning to engage in violent activities abroad. The men—Muhammad Indra Aqmal bin Effendy (21), Mohamad Latiff bin Rahim (41), and Nurisham bin Yusoff (44)—were self-radicalised online and had made preparations to join armed groups.

According to the ISD, their cases were independent, yet the Israel-Hamas conflict played a significant role in accelerating their radicalisation. Indra and Nurisham were preparing to join Hamas in Gaza, while Latiff sought to fight for Iran’s military forces and Iran-backed groups against Israel in the Middle East.

The three men had either travelled to or intended to visit shooting ranges in Indonesia and Thailand for firearms training. One individual even showed intentions of conducting attacks within Singapore.

Indra, influenced by the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, immersed himself in extremist content. His hatred for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) intensified, and he sought to die as a martyr in Gaza. To prepare, he practised shooting with toy guns.

Latiff, living in Bangkok, began his radicalisation in 2010, delving into Islamic eschatology. He believed in an apocalyptic battle and aimed to fight for Iran’s forces after the Hamas attack. He practised firearms and knife attacks, simulating violence.

Nurisham, a former security guard, was radicalised through online extremist materials from 2020. Motivated by the Israel-Hamas conflict, he felt compelled to fight in Gaza, and his prior military training in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) strengthened his resolve.

The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) reassured the public that the SAF is closely monitored for potential security threats. The Military Security Department regularly screens personnel to prevent the infiltration of individuals with extremist views or dangerous intentions.

The ISD emphasised that the detained individuals acted alone and did not recruit others in Singapore. Their families were unaware of their plans. The cases underscore the impact of global conflicts on national security, with the ISD addressing at least five similar cases linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict since October 2023.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant against radicalisation, highlighting warning signs such as engaging with extremist content online, promoting violence, or discussing plans for violent activities. The ISD continues to take action against any individual in Singapore involved in preparing for or supporting armed violence, no matter the location.