NIA Launches Probe After Mastermind of Pahalgam Attack Killed in Srinagar Encounter

The NIA is investigating the recent killing of the alleged mastermind behind the Pahalgam terror attack and two associates, after an encounter with security forces near Srinagar. This follows Operation Mahadev, where elite commandos targeted terrorists linked to earlier attacks, using technical intelligence to track satellite phone usage.

A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated an investigation into the deaths of the alleged mastermind of the Pahalgam terror attack, Sulieman alias Asif, and his two associates. The trio was killed during an encounter with security forces near Srinagar, officials confirmed on Tuesday.

The NIA team reached the Police Control Room (PCR) in the early hours for the identification process of the deceased terrorists. The elite para commandos of the Army successfully executed Operation Mahadev on Monday, resulting in the death of Sulieman and his associates, near the Dachigam National Park.

Security forces acted on intelligence indicating satellite phone usage by the terrorists. Among the dead are Jibran, linked to the Sonamarg Tunnel attack, and Hamza Afghani. The operation continues as intelligence suggests the presence of more terrorists in the area.

(With inputs from agencies.)