By The Sampadak Express
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made significant progress in its investigation into the deadly Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, primarily targeting tourists. According to NDTV reports, initial findings indicate a direct connection between Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in orchestrating the attack.
ISI and Lashkar-e-Taiba’s Alleged Role
NIA sources suggest that the plot behind the attack was conceived by LeT, allegedly under the guidance of senior ISI operatives. The attack, which occurred in the scenic tourist destination of Pahalgam, is believed to have been coordinated from Lashkar’s headquarters in Pakistan.
The two terrorists primarily responsible for the assault, identified as Hashmi Musa (alias Suleman) and Ali Bhai (alias Talha Bhai), have been confirmed as Pakistani nationals. Interrogations of arrested operatives reveal that the attackers maintained frequent communication with handlers in Pakistan, receiving detailed instructions regarding the attack’s timing, logistics, and execution.
Local Support and Preparations
The terrorists are believed to have entered Indian territory weeks before the assault, receiving logistical support from a network of Over Ground Workers (OGWs) based in the region. These OGWs are accused of providing critical assistance, including shelter, reconnaissance, and guidance for the attackers.
The NIA has carried out thorough forensic and electronic data analysis. Forensic teams have recovered over 40 cartridges from the crime scene, which are being subjected to ballistic and chemical testing. Additionally, investigators have conducted a 3D mapping of the attack site and have gathered mobile tower data from across the region for further analysis.
Satellite Surveillance and Activity
In the days leading up to the attack, a marked increase in satellite phone activity was observed in and around Baisaran, the area where the attack took place. Signals from at least three satellite phones were traced and analyzed, providing crucial leads to the authorities.
Ongoing Investigations and Raids
The NIA and other security agencies have questioned over 2,800 individuals in connection with the attack. As of May 2, more than 150 individuals remain in custody for further interrogation. These suspects include OGWs and people believed to have links with banned groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and various factions of the Hurriyat Conference.
Raids have been carried out in multiple districts, including Kupwara, Pulwama, Sopore, Anantnag, and Baramulla, with several homes of individuals suspected of aiding cross-border terror networks being searched.
Action Against Key Figures
In a significant development, the NIA searched the residence of Mushtaq Ahmad Zargar, also known as Latrum, a notorious figure involved in the 1999 Indian Airlines IC-814 hijacking. Zargar, believed to be operating from Pakistan, is considered a key figure in the regional terror network. His home was previously attached under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in 2023.
The investigation into the Pahalgam attack is ongoing, with authorities making significant strides in dismantling the network behind the assault and bringing those responsible to justice.
