NIA Takes Charge of Pahalgam Terror Attack Investigation: What We Know So Far

NIA Steps In to Investigate Pahalgam Attack

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has officially assumed control of the investigation into the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, ramping up efforts to gather evidence and interview witnesses to uncover the details of the attack, officials reported on Sunday.

Following directives from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the anti-terror agency initiated a case in Jammu on Sunday, deploying multiple teams to facilitate the investigation.

In response to the tragic attack that occurred on Tuesday, resulting in 26 fatalities, a contingent of NIA officials, led by an Inspector General (IG), was dispatched to the scene to support local law enforcement.

Since Wednesday, NIA teams have been stationed at the attack site, diligently searching for any potential evidence.

According to an NIA statement, investigators are meticulously examining entry and exit points to gather insights into the terrorists' operational methods. Forensic experts are also assisting in the thorough examination of the area to uncover the conspiracy behind this shocking incident.

Witnesses are being interrogated in detail to reconstruct the timeline of events surrounding one of the most devastating terror attacks in Kashmir's history.

The investigation teams, supervised by an IG, a Deputy Inspector General (DIG), and a Superintendent of Police (SP), are interviewing individuals who witnessed the horrifying events unfold in the scenic Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

During the attack, terrorists targeted male tourists enjoying local eateries, pony rides, and family picnics in the meadow, often referred to as 'Mini Switzerland' due to its breathtaking beauty.

NIA officials have been traveling across the country to gather information from survivors of the attack, which is believed to have been orchestrated by the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Reports indicate that NIA teams have collected testimonies from victims' families in various states, including Maharashtra, Odisha, and West Bengal.

Preliminary findings suggest that between five to seven terrorists may have participated in the attack, with at least two local militants reportedly trained in Pakistan.

Security agencies have released sketches of three suspects believed to be involved in the attack, identified as Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha, all hailing from Pakistan.

In an effort to gather more information, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have announced a reward of Rs 20 lakh for any leads that could help neutralize the terrorists.

Initial investigations also indicate that the attackers may have used body cameras to document their heinous act, as reported by eyewitnesses.