Chargesheet filed against Pak terrorist, 2 local associates: CIK

Srinagar, Aug 20: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) Tuesday presented a chargesheet before the Special Court designated under the NIA Act in Srinagar, detailing a case against a notorious Pakistani-based terrorist commander, known by aliases Sumama and Ilyas, and his two local associates from Pulwama.

The chargesheet, related to FIR No 02/2024 was filed under various Sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The accused have been identified as Shabir Ahmad Bhat, son of Ghulam Muhammad Bhat of Khadermoh, Kakapora, Pulwama, and Javed Ahmad Yatoo, son of the late Abdul Majeed Yatoo of Astan Mohalla Patal Bagh, Pampore.

The chargesheet alleges that the trio was involved in a criminal conspiracy to fund the terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in J&K.

According to the CIK, the case was initiated after receiving credible information indicating that the Pakistani-based terrorist commander, Sumama, in collaboration with Bhat and Yatoo, managed to secure funds from the Gulf countries.

These funds were allegedly smuggled into J&K through couriers and subsequently used to finance terrorist activities in the region.

Further, it is reported that Sumama, the handler based in Pakistan, is notorious for recruiting young individuals from J&K into terrorist ranks.

He reportedly uses various social media platforms, including encrypted messaging applications, to communicate with and radicalise potential recruits.

The authorities have already announced a reward of Rs 3 lakh for any information leading to the capture of Sumama, highlighting the significance of this case in the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the region.

The charges filed under Sections 13, 38, 39, and 40 of the UAPA, read with Section 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), underscore the severity of the allegations.

The Court of the Special Judge in Srinagar will now proceed with the case as the prosecution seeks to bring the accused to justice.