SRINAGAR – A coordinated, multi-agency investigation into the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives and sent shockw
SRINAGAR – A coordinated, multi-agency investigation into the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives and sent shockwaves across India, has uncovered crucial evidence of local complicity. Investigators have identified at least 15 Over Ground Workers (OGWs) from South Kashmir who allegedly provided significant assistance, including logistics and potentially weapons, to the Pakistani terrorists responsible for the massacre.
The probe, spearheaded by a joint effort involving the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Intelligence Bureau (IB), and the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), has zeroed in on these individuals based on electronic surveillance and human intelligence. Sources indicate the identified OGWs, already listed in police records, facilitated the attackers by arranging rations and possibly handling arms consignments believed to have originated from Pakistan.
Intensive scrutiny, including analysis of communication intercepts and location data, led investigators to focus on five primary suspects. Electronic evidence reportedly includes chat transcripts wherein suspects discussed the presence of Pakistani terrorists in Pahalgam and methods to support their operations. Location data confirmed their presence in the vicinity of the attack site around the time of the incident.
Significant progress has been made with the arrest of three of these five main suspects. A manhunt is currently underway for the remaining two individuals. The investigation has involved extensive questioning, with security forces initially interrogating over 1,500 people before narrowing the focus. More than 200 known OGWs have been questioned or detained as part of the effort to dismantle the support network, including ten others known for previous involvement in aiding militants.
Simultaneously, security forces have intensified search operations in the dense forests surrounding Pahalgam, particularly in the Baisaran area, where the fugitive terrorists are believed to be hiding. Despite extensive combing operations extending to nearby towns, the attackers remain elusive, presumably concealed within the challenging terrain.
The arrests and the identification of the local support structure mark a critical development in the case. Officials emphasized that cracking down on the OGW network, known for providing shelter, guidance, and logistical aid to terrorists, is paramount alongside the ongoing efforts to neutralize the perpetrators of the attack.
COMMENTS