The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir in connection with a Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist attack that took place in Rajouri district earlier this year, resulting in the death of seven civilians. The raids were carried out at five locations in the Gursai village of Mendhar tehsil in Poonch, based on information provided by two arrested individuals. Nisar Ahmad alias Haji Nisar and Mushtaq Hussain, who were arrested on August 31, are currently imprisoned in Central Jail, Kot Bhalwal, Jammu.
The attack in Dhangri village on January 1 claimed the lives of five people, while two others were killed the following day when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) left behind by the terrorists exploded. The case was initially registered at Rajouri police station under the Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and the Arms Act. However, the NIA took over the case on January 13 for further investigations.
According to an NIA spokesperson, the agency conducted extensive searches at the residential premises of overground workers associated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba. During the searches, various digital devices and documents containing incriminating data and content were seized and are currently under scrutiny.
The investigations have revealed that the arrested individuals provided logistical support and shelter to the terrorists for over two months. It is believed that they were operating under the instructions of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba handlers Saifullah alias Sajid Jutt, Abu Qatal alias Qatal Sindhi, and Mohd Qasim.
It is important to note that the above article has been sourced from an external agency, and apart from the headline, no edits have been made by NDTV staff.