Pahalgam terror attack: NIA arrests two men for harbouring terrorists

In a major breakthrough in the Pahalgam terror attack case, the NIA has arrested two men for allegedly harbouring the terrorists who had carried out the attack killing 26 people and grievously injuring 16.

The accused have been identified as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote, Pahalgam, and Bashir Ahmad Jothar of Hill Park, Pahalgam.

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They purportedly disclosed the identities of the three armed terrorists involved in the attack, and also confirmed that they were Pakistani nationals affiliated to the proscribed terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

“Parvaiz and Bashir had knowingly harboured the three armed terrorists at a seasonal dhok [hut] at Hill Park before the attack, as per NIA investigations. The two men had provided food, shelter and logistical support to the terrorists, who had, on the fateful afternoon, selectively killed the tourists on the basis of their religious identity, making it one of the most gruesome terrorist attacks ever,” the agency said.

The NIA has arrested the two accused under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Further investigations are going on.