NIA Detains Duo for Harboring Suspects of Pahalgam Terrorist Attack
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended two individuals in connection with providing shelter to terrorists involved in the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives. The arrests followed a thorough investigation that involved questioning over 2,000 local residents, including pony handlers and eyewitnesses.
This development follows recent NIA raids conducted at 32 locations throughout Kashmir, including areas such as Shopian, Kulgam, Pulwama, Sopore, and Kupwara. These raids targeted suspected overground operatives linked to terrorist groups based in Pakistan. The operation was supported by Jammu and Kashmir Police and is part of a larger federal initiative to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in the area.
Besides the two arrests, several other individuals have been detained under the Public Safety Act. Authorities also conducted interviews with both the relatives of victims and those who survived the Pahalgam attack.
The Resistance Front (TRF), a faction of the Pakistan-supported Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), had previously claimed responsibility for the attack in Pahalgam. NIA officials have reported uncovering new insights into the attackers’ movements and support systems, with senior teams from the agency continuing their in-depth investigation of the case.
The recent arrests highlight India's intensified counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities are focused on ensuring safety ahead of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra and preventing a resurgence of militancy in the region.
