Srinagar, July 29, 2025 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a probe into the killing of the alleged mastermind behind the Pahalgam terror attack, along with his two associates, in a high-level encounter near Srinagar, officials said on Tuesday.
A team of NIA officers arrived at the Police Control Room (PCR) in Srinagar early Tuesday to assist in identifying the slain terrorists. The three were gunned down by Army’s elite para commandos on Monday during Operation Mahadev in the Mulnar area of Harwan, near Dachigam National Park.
According to officials, the operation was triggered by a technical intercept—specifically, a satellite phone linked to the April 22 Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists. The phone’s signal led security forces to the hideout, resulting in a swift and coordinated strike.
Identified Terrorists
The terrorists killed in the encounter have been identified as:
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Sulieman alias Asif – Alleged mastermind of the Pahalgam attack
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Jibran – Suspect in the Sonamarg Tunnel attack in October 2024, which killed seven, including a doctor
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Hamza Afghani – Another top operative associated with Pakistan-based terror outfits
The NIA is verifying identities by taking eyewitnesses in small batches for confirmation, particularly to ascertain whether the body includes that of Sulieman Shah, officials said.
Seizures and Ongoing Operation
Security forces recovered an M4 carbine rifle, two AK rifles, and other arms and ammunition from the site.
The operation is ongoing, with intelligence inputs suggesting the presence of another group of terrorists in the vicinity, officials confirmed.
The April 22 massacre in Pahalgam had prompted the launch of Operation Sindoor, a broader offensive targeting cross-border terror infrastructure. Operation Mahadev marks a significant success in that continuing counter-terror effort.
