The National Investigation Agency (NIA) probing the terrorist attack in Pahalgam has recorded statements from 25 victims and eyewitnesses, sending the empty bullet shells recovered from the scene for forensic examination. Additionally, the agency has summoned horse and mule operators who transport tourists to the Baisaran Valley for questioning. Reports suggest that over 100 individuals have been interrogated regarding this incident.
In addition to victims and eyewitnesses, local residents working in the Baisaran Valley, including tea stall and Bhel Puri vendors, as well as those using horses and mules to transport tourists, were called for questioning today.
According to the information received, two terrorists entered through the entry gate, while one gained access through the exit. The terrorists were reportedly dressed in tracksuits and traditional Kashmiri attire.
'Three Terrorists Opened Fire'
The investigation revealed that three terrorists were involved in the shooting in the Baisaran Valley. Photographic and video evidence has been obtained by the agency.
The agencies found that a fourth terrorist remained hidden in the forest, possibly to provide assistance to the other three actively engaged in shooting.
'Shooting Began at the Exit Gate First'
It was unveiled during the investigation that firing commenced at the exit gate, prompting tourists to flee towards the entry gate. This was part of a planned tactic, as two terrorists were already waiting at the entry gate.
Following this, terrorists gathered all tourists near the entry gate, demanding women to segregate from men. However, when people resisted, the terrorists forcibly separated them, instructing Hindus and Muslims to stand apart. Subsequently, they interrogated the tourists about their religion, asking them to recite religious prayers, before tragically opening fire.
'Most Shooting Occurred at Tea and Bhel Puri Stalls'
The investigation also found that a naval officer was shot by terrorists who accessed the premises through the entry gate. During the attack, the majority of shots were aimed at the tea and Bhel Puri stalls.
Further evidence indicated that after executing the attack, the terrorists fled by leaping over the left-side wall of the park. Horse and mule operators summoned by the investigation agency revealed to Aaj Tak that repeated questioning has occurred, yet they were summoned once more by the police.
'My Brother Was Terrified'
Information has emerged that Mujammil, a local zipline operator, was summoned again for questioning. Outside the Pahalgam police station, Mujammil’s brother related to Aaj Tak that following the viral circulation of a video, police had asked Mujammil to report for questioning once more on Monday evening. He is currently at the Pahalgam police station facing interrogation by the NIA team.
Mujammil’s brother, Mukhtar, shared that Mujammil has been working in the Baisaran Valley for three years. On the attack day, April 22, he rushed home in a panic. You can see in the video, my brother was unaware of what was happening there.
On 22nd April, in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam of the Baisaran Valley, terrorists targeted tourists in a dreadful attack. This attack claimed the lives of 26 tourists and left several others injured. Subsequently, the police and security forces have accelerated their actions against the terrorists.
