NIA Probe Points To Pakistan Army, ISI Coordination In Pahalgam Terror Attack
The Pahalgam terrorist attack that left 26 civilians dead in Jammu and Kashmir last month was conspired by the Pakistan Army, ISI, and terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba, according to the National Investigation Agency.
As per the anti-terror agency probing the matter, the investigation has also revealed that the attackers hid arms and ammunition in Betaab Valley. The agency has also stated the presence of Over-Ground Workers (OGW) in its report.
The NIA has prepared a list of contacts of OGWs for administrative and judicial action against them.
In the preliminary investigation report, the agnecy has recorded the statements of about 150 people. Initial reports of 3D mapping and recreation are also part of this preliminary investigation report, prepared under the leadership of NIA DG.
The empty cartridges recovered from the spot have been sent to Forensic Science Laboratory and the report is awaited.
Mention Of PoK In NIA Report
The NIA's preliminary investigation report mentions that the terrorists were in contact with their handlers in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The report also mentions the name of two terrorists, Hashmi Musa and Ali Bhai aka Talha Bhai who are citizens of Pakistan.
As per the NIA report, the terrorists were in contact with their handlers in Pakistan from where they were receiving instructions. The conspiracy is said to have been hatched at Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters on the instructions of ISI, the report stated.
The NIA DG will submit this preliminary investigation report to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
Vance Speaks On India-Pak Tensions
US Vice President JD Vance said on Thursday that he hopes Pakistan will support India in hunting down terrorists who are operating in its territory.
He also said he expects India would respond to the attack in a way that would not lead to broader regional conflict.
"Our hope here is that India responds to this terrorist attack in a way that doesn't lead to a broader regional conflict," Vance said.
"And we hope, frankly, that Pakistan, to the extent that they're responsible, cooperates with India to make sure that the terrorists sometimes operating in their territory are hunted down and dealt with," he added.
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