NIA Arrests Two for Aiding Terrorists Behind Pahalgam Attack

Pahalgam: In a major breakthrough in the investigation into the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two local residents for allegedly providing shelter and support to the militants responsible for the massacre that left 26 tourists dead and 16 seriously injured. The accused, Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar of Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park, are charged with offering food, shelter, and logistical aid to three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives. According to the NIA, the militants were housed in a seasonal hut at Hill Park prior to the attack.

Investigators confirmed that the terrorists were Pakistani nationals affiliated with the banned LeT outfit. The NIA has described the incident as “one of the most gruesome terrorist attacks ever,” citing religious targeting as the motive behind the killings.

The two accused have been booked under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and are currently in custody. The case, officially registered as RC-02/2025/NIA/JMU, remains under active investigation.

The arrests signal significant progress in the high-profile case, which has drawn nationwide condemnation and renewed attention to cross-border terror threats. Security agencies are continuing efforts to dismantle the wider support network believed to have facilitated the attack.