In a major breakthrough concerning the recent terrorist ambush on a bus carrying pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, police have successfully apprehended an accomplice of the attackers. The arrested individual is known to have repeatedly harbored the terrorists and served as their guide. Interrogations are ongoing with the suspect in custody.
On the evening of June 9th, terrorists attacked a 53-seater bus carrying pilgrims to the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra. The assault resulted in the vehicle plunging into a gorge, killing 9 individuals, including a minor, and injuring 41 others. Pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi were aboard. Investigations are jointly conducted by the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The accomplice provided shelter to terrorists: SSP Reasi
On Wednesday, SSP Reasi, Mohita Sharma, stated, "A significant arrest has been made in relation to the terrorist strike on the pilgrim bus returning from Shivkhori on June 9th. The suspect, Hakam, aged 45, was involved in sheltering the assailants numerous times. Apart from providing food and shelter, this person also acted as a guide, assisting them in reaching the targeted site. The apprehended individual is a key associate of the terrorists, aiding in the execution of the attack. Further investigations and questioning are ongoing."
Police release sketches of 4 suspected terrorists
The Jammu & Kashmir Police have circulated sketches of 4 terrorists implicated in the Doda district attack. In addition, a reward of 20 lakh rupees has been announced for information leading to their arrest. Several districts across the valley, including Rajouri and Jammu districts such as Sunderbani, Naushera, Domana, Lamberi, and Akhnoor, have been put on high alert. Intelligence agencies have warned of potential new attacks on security forces by terrorist organizations. Officials have been advised to maintain a heightened level of alertness.
The sudden increase in terrorist attacks: Why now?
In the anticipate of the forthcoming Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections, terrorists aim to instill fear in the region. Based on intelligence inputs, a subgroup of the TRF known as the Falcon Squad is carrying out such strikes. This cell includes foreign militants. In addition, the recent uptick in tourist activity in Jammu and Kashmir has unsettled the terrorist leaders in Pakistan who want to disrupt the valley's peaceful atmosphere.
Intelligence sources suggest that these attacks, fueled by Pakistan's backing, are targeting the preparations for the upcoming Legislative Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. There is constant scrutiny from ISI on the electoral activities in the region. Allegedly, the attacks' planning took place in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Indian intelligence believes that similar strikes, especially in Jammu, may be orchestrated in the upcoming days.
