The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday carried out raids at seven locations in Jammu and Kashmir, as part of its investigation into the Reasi bus attack case, which claimed the lives of nine pilgrims.

The ongoing searches are focused on locations tied to hybrid terrorists and Over-Ground Workers (OGWs), with teams deployed in the Rajouri and Reasi districts since the early hours of Friday.

This follows a series of previous NIA raids in June this year, including a major operation in Rajouri linked to the same case. The tragic incident occurred on June 9, when terrorists opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori to Katra. The attack caused the bus to veer off into a gorge in the Pouni area of Reasi, leading to the deaths of nine individuals, including a child, and leaving more than 30 others injured.

The NIA took over the investigation on June 15, following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs. In its initial searches, the agency had raided five locations connected to hybrid terrorists and OGWs, seizing items that established a clear link between the suspects and the attackers. One of the key suspects, Hakam Khan, alias Hakin Din, was arrested for providing shelter, logistics, and other support to the terrorists involved in the deadly attack.

Jammu and Kashmir police had earlier confirmed the involvement of at least two terrorists in the ambush.

(Reuters)1O