14 active terrorists identified in Kashmir, including LeT, JeM, and HM operatives linked to attacks, says Intelligence

Intelligence agencies have identified 14 active terrorists currently operating in the Kashmir Valley, with eight affiliated to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), three to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and three to Hizbul Mujahideen (HM). These operatives are reportedly involved in several ongoing militant activities in the region. Security forces have gathered precise details, including their addresses and areas of operation. The authorities are also conducting joint interrogations of overground workers to gather more intelligence about these terrorists.

The identified terrorists are mostly in their early 20s, and the majority of them joined the Pakistan-based groups after 2021. Areas such as Shopian, Pulwama, Anantnag, Sopore, Awantipora, and Kulgam are the primary locations where these terrorists are active. Intelligence reports suggest that these operatives are being closely monitored, with security forces intensifying efforts to neutralize their threat.

Among the terrorists listed, Ahsan Sheikh from Pulwama is suspected of involvement in the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 deaths and several injuries. His house was demolished by security forces as part of their ongoing operations in the region. The NIA is actively investigating the attack, including recording statements from survivors to gain a clearer picture of the events and those involved. These survivors are being questioned in various locations, including Pune and Kolkata.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is also focusing on the details surrounding the terrorists linked to the Pahalgam attack, particularly Asif Ahmad Sheikh from JeM. Sheikh's name has emerged in connection with the attack, raising questions about the collaboration between JeM and LeT operatives. The NIA is probing whether Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI, may have played a role in orchestrating the attack, though this remains under investigation.

In response to the growing security threat, Jammu and Kashmir Police have released sketches of three terrorists—Ali Bhai alias Talha Bhai, Hashim Musa alias Suleiman, and Adil Hussain Thoker—and announced a reward of ₹20 lakh for information leading to their capture. Musa is believed to be involved in at least three previous attacks, including an ambush on an IAF convoy in Poonch in May 2024. These measures reflect the heightened security concerns in the region as authorities continue their efforts to apprehend these militants.