Terrorists Behind IAF Convoy Attack in J&K's Poonch Identified, Manhunt Intensifies

Indian authorities have released photographs and details of three suspects believed to be responsible for the deadly attack on an Air Force (IAF) convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on May 4th.

The assault, which tragically claimed the life of Corporal Vikky Pahade and injured four other IAF personnel, has sparked a significant security response.

Unmasking the Suspects​

The investigation has yielded crucial information about the potential perpetrators:

• Illiyas: A former Pakistan Army commando, also known by the alias "Fauji".
• Abu Hamza: The leader of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfit. Described as a fair-skinned man in his early 30s, last seen wearing a Pathani suit. Authorities are offering a ₹ 10 lakh reward for information leading to his capture.
• Hadoon: A Pakistani terrorist whose specific background details remain undisclosed.

Security agencies suspect the involvement of the People's Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), a terror group affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). JeM has a well-documented history of violence in the region, including a deadly attack on an army vehicle in Poonch last December.

The Attack and its Aftermath​

The May 4th attack transpired near Shahsitar in Poonch. The terrorists employed sophisticated weaponry, including American-made M4s and Russian-made AK-47s, highlighting a concerning escalation in the type of firearms used in such operations.

In response, a large-scale search operation has been launched, encompassing the Poonch and Rajouri districts. The Indian Army, police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) are collaborating in this intensive effort. Drones and sniffer dogs are being deployed to locate the suspects. Additionally, several individuals have been detained for questioning, and CCTV footage is being extensively reviewed to gather further leads.

A Region Grappling with Violence​

This attack is just the latest incident in a series of terror-related activities plaguing the Poonch and Rajouri areas. The targeted killing of a government employee outside a mosque just weeks prior underscores the concerning trend. It's important to note that this surge in violence coincides with the upcoming sixth phase of the Lok Sabha election scheduled for May 25th.

Heightened Vigilance Essential​

The attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges faced by civilians and military personnel in Jammu and Kashmir. It emphasizes the critical need for continued vigilance and proactive counter-terrorism operations by Indian security forces.