NIA Nabs Accomplices in Pahalgam Terror Attack

In a critical development, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended two men suspected of aiding terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack that resulted in 26 deaths, as reported on Sunday.

The NIA identified the suspects as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar from Hill Park, Pahalgam. They allegedly revealed the identities of the three armed attackers, confirming that the perpetrators were Pakistani nationals linked to the banned terrorist group, Lashkar-e-Taiba.

The NIA stated that the suspects had knowingly sheltered the terrorists at a seasonal hut in Hill Park prior to the incident, providing necessary support like food and shelter. This attack, executed on April 22, was marked by the selective targeting of tourists based on religious identity. Parvaiz and Bashir have been arrested under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, as further investigations continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)