Jammu: Security agencies on Saturday intensified their crackdown on networks allegedly linked to cross-border terrorism and radicalisation in Jammu and Kashmir, with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducting searches at 10 locations and the State Investigation Agency (SIA) carrying out raids at five locations in separate cases.
The NIA searches were conducted at locations in Kupwara, Kulgam, Bandipora, Baramulla and Sopore as part of its investigation into a cross-border terror conspiracy involving Pakistan-based handlers of the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and their alleged network of local Over Ground Workers (OGWs).
According to the NIA, the searches were aimed at unearthing further evidence related to the conspiracy and establishing the roles of individuals allegedly providing logistical and other support to infiltrated terrorists.
Incriminating material relevant to the case was seized or secured during the searches and is being examined and corroborated with other evidence gathered during the investigation, the agency said.
The investigation began following the arrest of an alleged LeT-linked OGW at a naka point on the night of March 31, 2026. A hand grenade and live ammunition were recovered from his possession. Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Pakistani nationals allegedly linked to the conspiracy and helped investigators identify members of the local support network, the NIA said.
The agency is examining alleged links between Pakistan-based LeT handlers and their local associates, who were purportedly being used for communication, movement and concealment of infiltrated terrorists, shelter, reconnaissance and other logistical support.
The NIA is also probing the financial trail, communication channels, movement of the accused and the source and supply chain of arms and explosives to establish the complete network.
Separately, the SIA conducted searches at five locations in Poonch and Udhampur in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged propagation of secessionist narratives and radicalisation through online and offline communication channels.
The SIA searches were carried out in Mandi and Surankote areas of Poonch and Ramnagar in Udhampur.
An official said investigators had found that certain individuals were allegedly communicating with suspicious persons located across the Line of Control (LoC).
The searches, which began in the morning, were aimed at collecting and verifying relevant material and evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.
The two operations underline the continued focus of investigating agencies on suspected local support networks, cross-border linkages, radicalisation and logistical mechanisms allegedly facilitating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
