New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency on Thursday, August 28, confirmed that only three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists carried out the deadly attack in Baysaran, Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, according to News18. This is the agency’s first official statement since Operation Mahadev, in which all three were killed.
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News18 reported that initial survivor accounts indicated four to five assailants, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police had suggested additional involvement, possibly including a local. The NIA has now clarified that the strike was executed solely by three Pakistani terrorists.
The investigation found the trio conducted reconnaissance and chose Baysaran for its relative isolation, limited police presence, and heavy tourist footfall. They paid two overground workers Rs 3,000 for food and shelter. The agency is preparing to file a chargesheet against the two OGWs who have been arrested.
The Home Minister had already told Parliament that three terrorists were neutralised during Operation Mahadev. The NIA’s latest findings confirm those same individuals were responsible for the Pahalgam attack.