Major Breakthrough in Cross-Border Narco-Terror Network
In a significant development in the fight against cross-border terrorism, the Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency (SIA) has arrested the alleged kingpin of a narco-terror module from Mumbai International Airport. Mohammad Arshad alias Asif, a resident of Degwar Terwan village in Poonch, was taken into custody after evading capture since 2023.
The arrest marks what investigators describe as a major breakthrough in dismantling cross-border narco-terror networks operating in the Pir Panjal region. Arshad had been operating from Saudi Arabia and was considered the main handler connecting Pakistan-based terrorists with local operatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
Three-Day Transit Remand and Investigation Details
According to official statements, Arshad has been taken into custody on a three-day transit remand from Mumbai. The SIA Jammu had issued a Look-Out Circular (LOC) against him in 2023, followed by a non-bailable warrant from a competent court.
The case originated in May 2023 when credible information emerged about a narco-terror module operating in the Pir Panjal region. During a joint Police-Army search operation on the intervening night of May 30-31, 2023, an exchange of fire broke out between terrorists and security forces.
The operation resulted in the apprehension of four terrorists and the recovery of a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and narcotics, including:
- 29 kg of heroin
- One IED
- Six hand grenades
- One AK-56 rifle with 70 rounds
- Four pistols
International Connections and Module Operations
Investigators revealed that a total of eight accused were involved in the case, with two initially absconding. Laquit Ahmed, who had fled to Dubai immediately after the incident, was arrested by SIA Jammu from Ahmedabad airport in March this year.
Arshad, described as the key link between Pakistan-based handlers and local operatives, facilitated Laquit Ahmed's travel to Dubai and organized a secret meeting in the Surankote area to revive terrorism and narco-terror activities in the Pir Panjal region under his guidance.
Meanwhile, in a parallel development, SIA Kashmir has filed a chargesheet before the Court of Special Judge (Designated under NIA Act) in Srinagar against seven accused associated with another narco-terror module. This module was operated by Pakistan-based handler Mushtaq Ahmad Khan alias Khalid Bhai of Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen (TuM).
The accused in this separate case include:
- Anas Aijaz, Bilal Shabir Dildhar and Zahid Ahmad Sheikh (all from Tanghdar)
- Tanzeer Ahmad Najar of Sudhpora (Karnah)
- Mushtaq Ahmad Khan of Trumnard Batpora in Kupwara
- Srinagar residents Basit Ashraf Malik and Arsalan Mushtaq Bangri
Bilal Shabir Awan Diladar of Tanghdar remains absconding in this case. The chargesheet was filed under sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, and NDPS Act.
Significant Drug Seizure and Ongoing Investigations
The second case was registered on January 6 at Police Station Parimpora following the recovery of over 9 kg of heroin from a Tata Sumo vehicle during naka checking. This substantial drug seizure highlights the scale of narco-terror operations in the region.
Officials emphasized that Arshad's arrest represents a significant success in SIA's sustained efforts to dismantle networks involved in narco-terrorism and cross-border subversive activities. The agency continues its investigations to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in these dangerous networks that threaten regional security.
The coordinated efforts between different wings of SIA in Jammu and Kashmir demonstrate the comprehensive approach being taken to combat the twin threats of narcotics trafficking and terrorism that often fund and enable each other in the region.
