CIK conducts raids across Kashmir in 2015 terror network case

Srinagar, Jun 3: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday carried out coordinated searches at eight locations spanning six districts of the Kashmir as part of an ongoing investigation into a decade-old case linked to Pakistan-sponsored terrorist networks.

The operation, conducted on the basis of search warrants issued by the court, targeted the residential premises of several suspects who had come under scrutiny during the course of sustained investigation.

Officials said the searches focused on gathering evidence related to alleged links with terrorist handlers operating from across the border, sleeper cell networks, recruitment and radicalisation activities, and other operations prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India.

According to officials, the action stems from FIR No 02/2015 registered at Police Station CIK Srinagar.

The case was registered under relevant provisions, including Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, Sections 15, 16, 17, and 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and Section 7/25 of the Arms Act.

Searches were carried out simultaneously at two locations each in Srinagar and Bandipora, one location each in Kupwara, Anantnag, Kulgam, and Sopore (Baramulla district)

The suspects were identified through a combination of intelligence inputs, technical analysis, source reports, and preliminary inquiries.

During the searches, multiple digital devices including mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic gadgets along with documents and other incriminating materials were seized for detailed forensic examination.

Officials said that the operation was executed strictly in accordance with legal procedures, with all necessary formalities observed in the presence of witnesses and local police.

This case dates back to 2015 and pertains to broader networks allegedly involved in facilitating terrorism, radicalisation of youth, dissemination of extremist propaganda through encrypted communication platforms, and maintaining contacts with Pakistan-based terrorist handlers.

Officials said that the current searches are a result of fresh leads emerging from ongoing technical surveillance and intelligence gathering.

“These searches are part of our continuous efforts to dismantle support ecosystems that sustain terrorism in the Valley. The seized digital material is expected to provide crucial leads into cross-border linkages and local facilitators,” they said.

No arrests have been reported so far in today’s operation, but the investigation is continuing at a brisk pace.

Further questioning of suspects and analysis of the seized items is likely to yield more details in the coming days.