SIA Conducts Raids in Jammu and Kashmir Targeting 'White Collar' Terror Module

Raids in Srinagar and Ganderbal

On Friday, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) of Jammu and Kashmir executed raids in the districts of Srinagar and Ganderbal as part of their investigation into a 'white collar' terrorist module, according to officials. The operations commenced early in the morning, targeting multiple locations across these central Kashmir districts, including a search at the residence of Tufail Bhatt in the Batmaloo area of the city.

Background of the Investigation

Tufail Bhatt was apprehended last month in connection with the 'white collar' terror module case. Officials indicated that these raids are integral to the ongoing investigation. The term 'white collar' refers to professionals, including doctors, who are allegedly incited to adopt extremist ideologies and were reportedly involved in the explosion that occurred in Delhi on November 10.

Expanding the Investigation

Sources reveal that investigators are broadening their inquiry into alleged links to weapon supplies and the suspected involvement of suicide bomber Dr. Umar Farooq. A team from the SIA conducted an extensive search at the home of Tufail Niyaz Bhatt, the son of Niyaz Bhatt, as part of a follow-up investigation related to the ongoing probe into the Red Fort blast case.

Previous Arrests and Ongoing Efforts

An AC technician had previously been detained for his suspected role in supplying a rifle during the investigation. This latest raid aims to gather additional evidence and identify potential connections linked to the terror module. Investigators are now focusing on tracing the weapon supply chain and identifying accomplices who may have provided shelter, transport, or technical assistance.

Suspicions Surrounding Bhatt

According to sources involved in the investigation, Bhatt is suspected of providing an AK-47 rifle, which was recovered from a locker previously allocated to Dr. Adil Ahmad at the Government Medical College (GMC) in Anantnag. Dr. Adil is already in custody as the main accused in this case.

Future Actions Anticipated

Officials have stated that the SIA has intensified its investigations at various locations, and as the inquiry progresses, further searches and arrests cannot be ruled out.