Jammu & Kashmir: A National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam has revealed that the assailants had surveyed at least three other potential targets before selecting Baisaran Valley as their final strike location.
Sources close to the investigation said sketches of three suspects—identified as Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha—have been prepared and are believed to be among the operatives responsible for the deadly assault, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists.
The NIA has found that the terrorists arrived in the tourist town two days prior to the ambush and had originally planned attacks at Aru Valley, an amusement park, and Betab Valley. However, these plans were aborted due to heightened security presence in those areas. Baisaran, less fortified, became their target.
Investigators have further uncovered that four local overground workers (OGWs) assisted the terrorists in conducting reconnaissance missions across the targeted sites.
Details emerging from the ongoing investigation suggest the attackers executed the operation with chilling precision. Eyewitness accounts and survivor testimonies indicate the group blocked both the entry and exit points of the Baisaran meadow, trapping dozens of tourists during the onslaught.
The coordinated assault reportedly involved four terrorists. Two infiltrated through the main gate, one secured the exit route, while the fourth is believed to have hidden in the surrounding pine forest, ready to provide backup if required.
Authorities also believe the militants remain active and may still be concealed in areas of south Kashmir. Intelligence inputs suggest they were well-equipped and carried sufficient supplies, allowing them to sustain themselves in remote forested terrain without outside support.
The attack has further strained relations between India and Pakistan, with New Delhi pointing to cross-border elements in the orchestration of the attack.
Meanwhile, security forces have intensified operations in the region as the hunt continues for the remaining terrorists.
