A dozen suspects linked with Pak-based terror handlers identified: NIA
Probe agency raids multiple locations in J&K, Punjab
Srinagar: A dozen suspects having links with “Pakistan-based terror handlers” were identified, leading to multiple raids in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, a spokesperson of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Wednesday.
In June 2022, the NIA had registered a suo-moto case against Over Ground Workers and cadres of various proscribed outfits and their off-shoots, which were operating under pseudo names on the commands of their Pakistani commanders or handlers.
“In follow up operations in 2022, searches were conducted at 14 locations in six districts of Jammu and Kashmir including Srinagar, Baramulla, Pulwama, Anantnag, Budgam and Kathua and one location in Fatehgarh Sahib in Punjab,” a spokesperson of the federal agency said.
The official said digital devices and incriminating material were seized from these locations during the raids conducted on Tuesday while further investigations are in progress.
The official said the case relates to a “terror conspiracy hatched by Pakistan-based commanders of proscribed terrorist organisations to radicalize the youth of Jammu and Kashmir and target members of minority communities, security personnel and religious events or activities”.
“The accused were also found involved in spreading terror in Jammu and Kashmir over cyber-space,” the spokesperson said, adding during investigations, 12 suspects were identified who were in touch with different Pakistan based handlers.
Searches were conducted at different locations belonging to the suspects across J&K and Punjab, the spokesperson said.
LeT associate arrested in Baramulla
Srinagar, Mar 15: A “terrorist associate” of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was arrested and some ammunition recovered from his possession in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, police said on Wednesday.
During naka checking at Singhpora Pattan, in the north Kashmir district, security forces noticed a person wearing ‘Pheran’ (traditional cloak) coming from Matipora side, a police official said.
He said on seeing the naka party, the person tried to flee, but the party chased him and he was apprehended.
Seventy-one live rounds of AK-47 were recovered during the personal search of the “terrorist associate” who was taken into custody immediately, the official said.
“During his questioning, he revealed his name as Ali Mohammad Bhat, son of Ghulam Rasool, a resident of Bonichakal Arampora Pattan, and said he is working as a terrorist associate with the banned LeT,” the official said.
A case under sections of the Arms Act and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act has been registered and investigation initiated, the official added.
