The National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched coordinated searches at seven locations in the Rajouri and Reasi districts on Friday as part of its ongoing investigation into the deadly June terror attack on a bus carrying pilgrims returning from the Shiv Khori temple. The tragic incident, which occurred on June 9, resulted in the deaths of nine individuals, including seven pilgrims from outside Jammu and Kashmir, and left 41 others injured.
Reportedly, the bus was ambushed by terrorists in the Pouni area of Reasi, prompting the driver to lose control and veer off the road, ultimately plunging into a deep gorge near Teryath village. The case was handed over to the NIA on June 17 by the Ministry of Home Affairs, following escalating concerns over the attack.
So far, authorities have arrested one suspect, Hakam Khan of Rajouri, who is alleged to have provided food, shelter, and logistical support to the terrorists, in addition to helping them conduct reconnaissance in the area prior to the assault.
As part of the current operation, multiple NIA teams have been searching various sites linked to hybrid terrorists and Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) since early Friday morning. The agency previously conducted searches at five locations in Rajouri on June 30, aimed at uncovering further connections to the attack.
The latest raids come amidst ongoing investigations that have highlighted the troubling nexus between local militants and their supporters. Items seized during earlier searches have provided evidence of linkages between the arrested suspects and the perpetrators of the attack.
The Jammu and Kashmir police previously reported that at least two terrorists were involved in the ambush, underscoring the continuing threat posed by militant groups in the region.