Who Is the Key Aide Arrested in the Pahalgam Attack?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal move, Jammu and Kashmir authorities have arrested a key figure linked to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives. This development follows extensive investigations into the terror funding network and highlights the ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist operations in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Mohammad Kataria was arrested for providing support to terrorists.
- The NIA is investigating international funding networks.
- A total of 26 lives were lost in the Pahalgam attack.
- Operation Mahadev led to significant breakthroughs against terrorism.
- Efforts are underway to pressure Pakistan at the Financial Action Task Force.
New Delhi/Srinagar, Sep 24 (NationPress) In a significant development, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have apprehended an individual accused of supplying logistical aid to the terrorists responsible for the devastating attack in Pahalgam on April 22. This suspect has been named Mohammad Kataria.
The arrest followed a thorough forensic examination of weapons and equipment seized during Operation Mahadev, conducted in July.
During this operation, security forces successfully tracked down and neutralized three terrorists who were behind the tragic loss of 26 lives in Pahalgam.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is also probing this incident, had previously detained two individuals in June for allegedly harboring these terrorists.
Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park, Pahalgam, revealed the identities of the three terrorists involved in the attack.
They reportedly provided food and shelter to the attackers.
The NIA also detained a Handwara resident for questioning regarding the funding linked to this attack.
Additionally, the agency is examining 450 phone numbers, including those connected to 80 ongoing investigations since 2011.
The investigation revealed that one Yasir Hayat was in contact with a suspected handler based in Malaysia, Sajad Ahmed Mir, along with two associates from Pakistan.
Mir instructed Hayat to transfer funds amounting to Rs 2 lakh to Shafat Wani. While in Malaysia, Hayat maintained communication with two Pakistanis.
In total, Wani is believed to have received Rs 9 lakh to facilitate terrorist activities.
The NIA disclosed that it has uncovered a foreign funding trail, currently under investigation.
This inquiry reveals a complicated web of international financing linked to accounts in Malaysia.
The funds were reportedly directed to The Resistance Front, the group responsible for the attack. Indian intelligence agencies, alongside the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the NIA, are compiling a comprehensive dossier on this organization.
This dossier will include information regarding funding sources, radicalization, training, and recruitment practices within the terror group. The Resistance Front is considered a proxy for Lashkar-e-Taiba.
It was established by the ISI to create the illusion that the conflict in Kashmir is being fought by locals, while allowing Pakistan and Lashkar-e-Taiba plausible deniability for attacks on Indian territory.
The dossier being prepared by these agencies is crucial for addressing the terror funding pathways linking back to Pakistan.
India aims to pressure Pakistan at the Financial Action Task Force, hoping to see it placed back on the Grey List, as it was in previous years.
Point of View
I stand firmly with the nation's commitment to combat terrorism. The arrest of Mohammad Kataria signifies a relentless pursuit of justice and highlights the importance of addressing both local and international funding sources that fuel such attacks. Our focus remains on ensuring the safety of our citizens and dismantling networks that threaten our security.
NationPress
31/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in connection with the Pahalgam attack?
The individual arrested is Mohammad Kataria, accused of providing logistical support to the terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
What operation led to the arrest of Mohammad Kataria?
Operation Mahadev was conducted in July, leading to the arrest following a forensic analysis of weapons and equipment.
What was the outcome of the Pahalgam attack?
The attack resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives.
What is the role of the National Investigation Agency in this case?
The NIA is investigating the funding and support networks associated with the attack, including previous arrests related to harboring terrorists.
What is The Resistance Front?
The Resistance Front is a terror organization linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, established to create a facade of local involvement in the Kashmir conflict.
