Srinagar, Sept 12: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted fresh searches at multiple locations across Kashmir as part of its ongoing probe into a cross-border terror conspiracy involving Pakistan-based handlers and a network of local Over Ground Workers (OGWs), official sources said.
Searches were underway at several locations in Kulgam, Bandipora, Kupwara and Baramulla districts. The residences of two suspected women OGWs were also being searched, they said.
The NIA teams were assisted by local police and security personnel during the operations.
The case pertains to an alleged terror support network providing logistical and other assistance to terrorists who infiltrated Jammu and Kashmir, with links to Pakistan-based handlers. The investigation is also examining the alleged role of local OGWs associated with the proscribed terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The case originated from FIR No. 24/2026 registered at Police Station Zakoora, Srinagar, and was subsequently re-registered by the NIA as RC-02/2026/NIA/JMU under Section 23 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, Sections 7 and 25 of the Arms Act, 1959, and Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act, 1908.
The investigation was initiated following the arrest of an alleged LeT-linked OGW during a late-night naka operation on March 31, 2026. A hand grenade and live ammunition were recovered from his possession, officials said.
During the subsequent investigation, Pakistani terrorists allegedly linked to the conspiracy were arrested, while the identities and alleged roles of members of the local support network were also established.
The latest searches follow an earlier NIA operation on August 22, when the agency searched 10 locations across Srinagar, Kupwara, Anantnag, Pulwama and Budgam in connection with the same investigation.
Further details of Saturday’s searches were awaited.
