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The article details the ongoing investigation into the Pahalgam attack and its connection to previous acts of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The primary focus is on Hashim Musa, identified as one of the Pakistani attackers, who investigators believe was also involved in at least two other strikes in October 2024 that specifically targeted non-local residents of the region. These attacks, including one in Gagangir (Ganderbal) and another in Buta Pathri (Baramulla), resulted in the deaths of non-local labourers, an Army doctor, and Army personnel and porters, respectively. The investigation points towards a pattern of targeted killings orchestrated by Pakistani terrorists, facilitated by local aides trained in Pakistan. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have announced a reward of Rs 20 lakh each for information leading to the apprehension of the three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists believed to be behind the Pahalgam massacre: Adil Hussain Thokar, a local Kashmiri, and Pakistani nationals Hasim Musa aka Suleiman and Ali Bhai aka Talha. The article highlights the recovery of a mobile phone from Arbaaz Mir, one of Musa's accomplices involved in the October 2024 strikes. Data extracted from the device, including chat logs, suggests that Pakistani masterminds were guiding the terrorists during the Gagangir and Buta Pathri attacks. The similarity in the assailants and motive across these attacks strengthens the suspicion of a common set of conspirators operating from Pakistan. This information was crucial in identifying Musa and his accomplices through eyewitness accounts. Following the Pahalgam attack, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha instructed security forces to bring the perpetrators to justice. Security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir are currently analyzing a vast amount of call data from the attack site to identify potential overground workers and facilitators who may have aided the terrorists. The article also mentions that the kin of Adil Thokar and other overground workers are being questioned to uncover his recent activities and hideouts. Furthermore, in response to the attack, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have initiated fresh vulnerability mapping of areas, including tourist spots and settlements of non-local laborers, to enhance security measures and prevent future incidents. The meticulous investigation, the reward announcement, and the increased security measures underscore the gravity of the situation and the government's commitment to combating terrorism in the region.
The connection between the Pahalgam attack and the prior incidents in Gagangir and Buta Pathri establishes a troubling pattern of targeted violence against non-local populations in Jammu and Kashmir. This suggests a deliberate strategy by terrorist groups to create fear and instability in the region. The involvement of Pakistani nationals in these attacks further complicates the situation and raises concerns about cross-border terrorism. The reliance of the terrorists on Pakistani masterminds, as evidenced by the mobile phone data recovered from Arbaaz Mir, indicates a coordinated effort to destabilize the region. The fact that Musa was able to evade capture in a previous encounter in Sopore highlights the challenges faced by security forces in apprehending these individuals. The use of technology by the terrorists, including secure apps like Ultra, underscores the need for security agencies to adopt advanced techniques for monitoring and disrupting their communication channels. The interrogation of Adil Thokar's kin and other overground workers signifies the importance of local intelligence in identifying and apprehending terrorists. The vulnerability mapping initiative is a crucial step in strengthening security measures in vulnerable areas, particularly tourist spots and settlements of non-local laborers. The Jammu and Kashmir Police's efforts to analyze the call data from the attack site demonstrate a proactive approach to identifying potential accomplices and unraveling the conspiracy behind the Pahalgam attack. The Lieutenant Governor's directive to avenge the killing of tourists reflects the government's determination to bring the perpetrators to justice and reassure the public.
The article effectively portrays the complexity of the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the persistent threat of terrorism and the challenges faced by security forces in combating it. The identification of Hashim Musa as a key figure in multiple attacks underscores the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and targeted operations to neutralize such individuals. The involvement of local aides in facilitating the terrorists further emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of radicalization and fostering a sense of belonging among the local population. The recovery of weapons and IEDs from the neutralized terrorists highlights the ongoing threat of violence and the need for vigilance. The article also sheds light on the human cost of terrorism, with the deaths of non-local laborers, Army personnel, and tourists serving as stark reminders of the devastating impact of such acts. The government's response to the Pahalgam attack, including the reward announcement, the increased security measures, and the ongoing investigation, demonstrates its commitment to protecting the lives and property of its citizens. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the situation, offering valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The coordinated efforts of the security forces, the intelligence agencies, and the local administration are crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The investigation into the Pahalgam attack and its connections to previous incidents underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to counter-terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. This includes strengthening border security to prevent the infiltration of Pakistani terrorists, enhancing intelligence gathering to identify and track terrorist activities, and addressing the root causes of radicalization among the local population. The importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism cannot be overstated. Pakistan's alleged involvement in supporting terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir needs to be addressed through diplomatic channels and international pressure. The use of technology by terrorist groups poses a significant challenge to security agencies. It is crucial to invest in advanced technologies and train personnel to effectively monitor and disrupt terrorist communications. Community engagement is essential in building trust and cooperation between the security forces and the local population. This can help to identify potential threats and prevent terrorist attacks. The vulnerability mapping initiative is a positive step towards enhancing security in vulnerable areas. However, it is important to ensure that these measures do not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of the local population. The government's commitment to avenging the killing of tourists and bringing the perpetrators to justice is commendable. However, it is important to ensure that any retaliatory measures are proportionate and do not lead to further escalation of violence. The long-term solution to the problem of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir lies in addressing the underlying political and economic grievances of the local population. This requires a sustained effort to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and economic development. The article serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism and the need for continued vigilance and coordinated action to protect the lives and property of citizens in Jammu and Kashmir.
Source: Attacker part of earlier strikes, had Pakistan handlers