The Jammu and Kashmir Police’s State Investigation Agency (SIA) has successfully uncovered and dismantled a Hizbul Mujahideen sleeper cell operating in the region. As part of this operation, an over-ground worker (OGW) associated with the banned outfit has been arrested.
According to officials, the arrested individual was found to be in direct contact with a cross-border terror handler, who was coordinating activities from Pakistan. The OGW had been engaged in facilitating terror-related logistics, communication, and ground-level support for militants in Kashmir.
The SIA revealed that the Hizbul Mujahideen has been attempting to revive its network in Jammu and Kashmir through sleeper cells and local sympathizers. The investigation has so far indicated that the arrested OGW was playing a crucial role in acting as a bridge between handlers across the border and operatives within J&K.
Authorities stated that this development marks a significant breakthrough in disrupting terrorist infrastructure in the Union Territory. The operation has not only exposed the sleeper cell but also provided vital leads about the broader network and its funding channels.
Police confirmed that further investigation is underway to trace additional members associated with this cell. Security agencies are also examining electronic evidence and communication records to establish deeper links with Pakistan-based handlers and possible plans to carry out subversive activities in the region.
The arrest is being seen as part of the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts to curb militancy in Jammu and Kashmir and prevent the resurgence of Hizbul Mujahideen, once one of the most active terror outfits in the Valley.