NIA nabs 2 for aiding Pahalgam attackers

In a major breakthrough in the Pahalgam terror attack case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two men for allegedly harbouring the terrorists responsible for the horrific attack that claimed 26 lives and left 16 grievously injured.

Those arrested have been identified as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar of Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park, both in Pahalgam, have reportedly disclosed the identities of the three armed terrorists involved in the attack. Their interrogation has confirmed that the attackers were Pakistani nationals affiliated with the banned terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT).

According to NIA investigations, Parvaiz and Bashir knowingly provided shelter to the three terrorists in a seasonal dhok (hut) at Hill Park prior to the attack. They supplied the terrorists with food, shelter and logistical support. On the day of the attack, the terrorists selectively targeted tourists based on their religious identity, making it one of the most brutal terrorist attacks in recent memory.

The NIA has arrested the duo under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and is continuing its investigation into the case, which was registered after the April 22 attack that sent shockwaves across the world.

Although the Jammu and Kashmir Police had released sketches of three suspected terrorists a day after the incident, the exact number of attackers still remains unclear. The arrest of these two individuals is expected to provide crucial leads to the NIA in determining the actual number of terrorists involved in the attack.

J & K