Kulgam attack probe uncovers cross-border link: LeT handler Sajjad Gul directed strike via Latif Bhat; armour-piercing bullets used

Investigative agencies have made some significant revelations during the probe into the Kulgam attack. Investigators recovered Cartridge casings found at the scene matched those from an earlier incident in Kulgam (Kelam). Forensic examination has highlighted the use of metal-jacketed, armour-piercing ammunition capable of penetrating standard body armour. A Motorola phone set and a SIM card were also recovered from the site. 

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and State Investigation Agency ( SIA ) joined the investigation and visited the spot and GOC 15 Corps army too visited the spot and had a ground assessment.  

The preliminary findings indicate involvement of LeT in the attack, Sajjad Gul top handler of LeT across the border directed Latif to carry out the attack. Latif who remains direct in contact with Sajjad Gul @ Sajjad Jatt also a Kashmiri now residing in POK a Top terror handler and wanted under  UAPA in India is said to have directed Latif to carry out the attack. About Latif, it has come out in investigation that he presently is the main point for Sajjad to carry any incident in Kashmir especially in South Kashmir. It’s said that Latif works for LET and Hizbul Mujahideen both and arranges OGW network for them. In Kulgam attack he managed the attack through OGWs. Police had questioned around 250 people in Kulgam, Shopian and Anantnag among them only 3 are still in custody who are doubted have provided logistical support for the attack. 

Initial accounts said the it was a motorcycle borne attack later investigation established that the attackers approached on foot from a nearby marshy/forested patch roughly 50 metres away, opened fire with AK-47s, and fled into thick bushes toward the Napur area. CCTV and ground evidence ruled out a primary motorcycle approach for the assault itself. 

Counties top investigative agencies NIA and SIA joined the investigation too. A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and (SIA) joined the investigation besides General Officer Commanding (GOC) 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh also visited Kulgam to take first hand account of situation.

The entire Union Territory remains on elevated alert with enhanced vigil from the Line of Control to urban centres and forest belts. Manhunt for attackers intensifies across Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces continued an intensive search and combing operation across the valley on the third day after terrorists attacked. Security forces have intensified area domination, vehicle checks, and surveillance along the National Highway, in cities, forests, and along the Line of Control. Additional barricades, armoured vehicles, and night patrols are in place

Intelligence assessments circulating among agencies point to a limited but persistent presence of foreign terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir figures in recent reports range around 100 or higher in some counts: Inputs have also referenced that around 80-100 terrorists are positioned near launch pads across the border awaiting opportunities to push into the Jammu and Kashmir. These assessments underscore the view that handlers remain determined to stage incidents despite the sharp decline in local recruitment.

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