Pahalgam attack: Over 1,500 detained for questioning; massive search operation underway
Two days after the Pahalgam terror attack, the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday released sketches and identities of the militants believed to be behind the assault. Police sources said that more than 1,500 individuals have been detained across the Valley for questioning in connection with the incident.
According to officials, the attackers include two Pakistani nationals and one local militant affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit. They have been identified as Adil Hussain Thokar from Anantnag district, and Ali Bahi alias Talha Bahi, and Hashim Musa alias Suleman, both from Pakistan.
The police have also announced a reward of Rs 20 lakh for information leading to the capture of the attackers. “The identity of informants will be kept confidential,” police said in a statement.
Sources indicated that the three militants have been active in the region for some time. Thokar reportedly travelled to Pakistan in 2018 and re-infiltrated into the Valley last year.
Meanwhile, a major crackdown has been launched by the J&K Police and over 1,500 people have been detained across various districts for questioning. Those taken into custody include suspected overground workers and individuals with prior records linked to militant activities.
“The detentions have been made from all districts of Kashmir, with a special focus on South Kashmir to gather leads about the attackers,” said police sources.
A massive manhunt also continued on Thursday in the forests around Pahalgam. The dense forested area is connected to the Kokernag forest and extends into the Kishtwar and Doda belts of the Jammu region—zones known for a significant militant presence.
Officials believe that since the attack site at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam is not accessible by road, the attackers had sufficient time to flee into the adjoining forests.
“A large-scale search operation is underway, and security forces have expanded the sweep area. All efforts are being made to track down the attackers,” a senior official in South Kashmir confirmed.
J & K