Three Lashkar-linked terrorists arrested in J&K's Budgam

In a significant counter-terror breakthrough, three individuals linked to the proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were arrested in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. The trio was allegedly planning to carry out terror attacks in the region while attempting to radicalise local youth and lure them into terrorism.

The accused—identified as Muzamil Ahmad, Ishfaq Pandit, and Muneer Ahmad—were apprehended by the police from the Magam area. A pistol and a hand grenade were seized during the arrest. Authorities said the men were acting on instructions from Aabid Qayoom Lone, a Pakistan-based LeT handler who had exfiltrated from Kashmir in 2020 and now operates from across the border.

Investigators revealed that Lone has been actively coordinating with sleeper cells in the Narbal–Magam belt of Budgam, not only directing recruitment efforts but also planning local attacks. His communication with the arrested operatives is believed to have played a crucial role in their activities.

According to police, the trio was assigned dual roles—facilitating terror logistics and acting as conduits for radical propaganda among the youth. Their mission involved stirring unrest and increasing the footprint of LeT operations in central Kashmir, a region that has recently seen renewed efforts by Pakistan-backed groups to regroup.

A case has been registered, and further investigation is underway to trace the wider network and any additional operatives operating in the area. Authorities are also probing the extent of foreign involvement and potential funding links to Pakistan.