The Diplomat Desk
Srinagar,(TDD): As a major breakthrough, the Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) conducted a series of coordinated searches across multiple districts today, including Srinagar, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Kulgam, Budgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama.
The operation led to the dismantling of a recruitment module allegedly being operated by the recently formed terrorist organization, ‘Tehreek Labaik Ya Muslim’ (TLM), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), headed by a Pakistani terrorist handler known as ‘Baba Hamas.’
The searches were carried out at 10 specific locations under warrants issued by the Hon’ble Court of Special Judge, designated under the NIA Act in Srinagar. The raids were linked to FIR No. 06/2023, under sections 153-A, 505, 121, and 120-B of the IPC, read with sections 13 and 39 of the UA(P) Act. The investigation centers around a conspiracy orchestrated by proscribed terrorist groups, both within Jammu and Kashmir and across the Line of Control, working in collaboration with Pakistani agencies.
These groups have been utilizing their local Over Ground Workers (OGWs), supporters, and sympathizers to establish new terror modules by manipulating social media platforms to radicalize and recruit Kashmiri youth into unlawful and terrorist activities.
According to intelligence gathered by the CIK, it has been revealed that ‘Baba Hamas,’ a key LeT handler, is spearheading efforts to launch the ‘Tehreek Labaik Ya Muslim’ (TLM) terrorist organization with the backing of Pakistani agencies. The group has been actively using encrypted social media channels to incite and provoke young Kashmiris, urging them to join the newly formed organization.
The module’s handlers have been disseminating seditious material through these covert platforms, aiming to instill radical ideologies and recruit youth for terrorist activities.
The investigation uncovered that this recruitment module is in continuous contact with terror handlers across the border. To evade detection, they have been relying on encrypted internet messaging services and specialized software for communication.
During the raids, several digital devices, SIM cards, mobile phones, laptops, and other incriminating materials were seized, providing crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The newly established TLM outfit has also claimed responsibility for various incidents, including a fire at a Panchayat Ghar in Seer, Pulwama, and another in a remote village in Doda, though some claims remain unverified.
The group has also been linked to the distribution of radical propaganda posters in South and Central Kashmir, as well as across social media platforms, glorifying terrorism and attempting to influence youth to join their ranks.
The CIK’s investigation aims not only to dismantle this terror recruitment network but also to expose and take legal action against the OGWs and other facilitators aiding these terrorist outfits. The searches mark a crucial step in the broader strategy to dismantle the terror ecosystem in the region and uphold the rule of law.(TDD)
