SRINAGAR, August 17, 2026 : The State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir has arrested an absconding operative allegedly linked to a narco-terror financing network, marking a significant development in its investigation into the alleged smuggling of narcotics from across the Line of Control (LoC) and the diversion of drug proceeds towards terrorist activities.
The accused, identified as Manoj Kumar Bhat alias Pintu, son of P.K. Bhat of Rehari Colony, Bakshi Nagar, Jammu, was apprehended during a special operation in Jammu, according to the SIA.
Wanted Since 2022
Bhat was wanted in connection with FIR No. 13/2022, registered by SIA Kashmir on June 3, 2022, concerning the alleged smuggling and distribution of narcotics and the channelisation of proceeds towards terror financing.
According to the agency, Bhat had been evading arrest for nearly four years.
The SIA said his arrest followed sustained investigative efforts involving technical surveillance, human intelligence and coordinated operations.
Alleged Pakistan-Linked Narco-Terror Network
According to the SIA, its investigation has uncovered a wider alleged conspiracy involving Pakistan/PoK-based operatives linked with Hizbul Mujahideen (HM).
The agency alleges that narcotics were trafficked into Jammu and Kashmir, distributed through a local network and that proceeds from their sale were subsequently channelled towards activities supporting the terrorist ecosystem.
Investigators allege that Bhat played a role in facilitating the sale and distribution of narcotics in the Jammu division.
The investigation has also identified alleged links with Pakistan/PoK-based handlers, including Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo alias Kandoo of Sopore and Manzoor Ahmad Khan of Baramulla.
The agency alleges that narcotics were brought from PoK and subsequently collected, distributed and sold through a network operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
Heroin, Poppy Straw Recovered
The case was initially registered following the alleged recovery of one kilogram of heroin from Zeeshan Ahmad Sofi and Waseem Ahmad Khan at Nowpora, Sopore.
Subsequent investigation reportedly led to the recovery of:
- 7 kg of poppy straw
- 4 kg of poppy seeds
- 15 grams of heroin from the residential premises of Manoj Kumar Bhat
- One motorcycle
- Various electronic gadgets, which are undergoing forensic and technical examination
The SIA said the recoveries and investigation helped investigators establish links to a broader alleged network involved in narcotics trafficking and terror financing.
Multiple Chargesheets Filed
During the investigation, SIA Kashmir filed multiple chargesheets before the competent court against Zeeshan Ahmad Sofi, Waseem Ahmad Khan, Bashir Ahmad Koli, Mohammad Ashraf Lone, Mohammad Saleem Khan and Zafraan Khan for judicial determination.
The agency said the investigation has established the alleged involvement of a wider network associated with Hizbul Mujahideen and its Pakistan/PoK-based handlers.
Interpol Red Corner Notice
In a related development, SIA Kashmir said it has secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice against alleged terrorist handler and narco-terror operative Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo in a separate terror-related case.
The notice is expected to assist authorities in pursuing the accused through international law-enforcement cooperation.
Investigation Continues
The latest arrest is expected to help investigators uncover additional layers of the alleged conspiracy, identify further linkages, trace the financial trail of suspected drug proceeds and establish the complete chain connecting narcotics trafficking with alleged terror financing.
The SIA said its investigation remains ongoing and that efforts will continue to identify and apprehend all persons allegedly involved and dismantle structures supporting narco-terror financing,
