Two Pakistani nationals and a local guide identified as key suspects in the deadly Pahalgam assault
Srinagar: In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the Jammu and Kashmir Police has released sketches of three individuals believed to be behind the assault. “The police identified two of the suspects as Pakistani nationals and the third as a local Kashmiri who allegedly guided the militants.”
According to official records, the three suspects are:
- Hashim Musa – A Pakistani national believed to have infiltrated into the Valley in September 2023. His area of operation has been identified as Budgam, close to Srinagar.
- Ali Bhai alias Talha – Another Pakistani national who arrived later and was reportedly active in the Dachigam forest, an area with access to Tral and Pahalgam via dense mountain routes.
- Adil Hussain Thoker – A resident of Gurre village, Bijbehara in Anantnag district, who allegedly traveled to Pakistan in 2018 and returned last year. Police believe Thoker acted as a local guide for the Pakistani militants.
Sketches Based on Eyewitness Accounts
Police have confirmed that the sketches were prepared using eyewitness accounts from survivors and local residents. In several cases, witnesses were shown images of active militants to identify similarities.
A senior officer in south Kashmir revealed, “These sketches are a result of multiple testimonies. Some of the witnesses recognized the attackers from previous encounters or were able to recall facial features.”
Possible Fourth Militant
Investigations are also underway to verify the presence of a fourth attacker. “We are examining whether this individual was local or a foreign national,” said a top police official.
Tactical Recce Carried Out
The police believe the attackers had conducted detailed reconnaissance of the area. One officer pointed out, “They had an accurate understanding of the forces’ response time. Since Baisaran can only be reached on foot, the attackers had at least an hour’s head start before security forces could reach the site. This allowed them ample time to escape into the thick forests.”
The strategic use of terrain and off-road areas suggests that the militants had well-planned their attack to evade counter-assaults and delay tracking.
Nation in Mourning, Security Tightened
The attack has triggered shockwaves across the country, with heightened security in major tourist areas and pilgrimage routes. As investigations deepen, police and intelligence agencies are working round-the-clock to trace the escape routes and hideouts of the suspects.
The Union Home Minister has also visited the site and assured full support to the local administration in counter-terrorism operations.
