Dhangri terrorist attack: NIA files chargesheet against 5 persons including 3 Pak based LeT handlers

Srinagar, Feb 26: More than a year after the Dhangri incident, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken a significant step towards justice.
On Monday, the agency filed charges against five individuals, including three operatives associated with Pakistan’s Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group, in connection with the heinous terrorist attack that shook Rajouri district.
The attack, which occurred on January 1, 2023, resulted in the loss of at least seven innocent lives, including two children, with several others sustaining severe injuries. Following the initial assault, an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by the terrorists claimed further casualties the next day.
According to an NIA spokesman, the case (RC-01 & 02/2023/NIA/JMU) centers on the orchestrated recruitment and dispatch of LeT terrorists from Pakistan to target civilians, particularly from minority communities in Jammu & Kashmir, as well as security personnel. The spokesman identified the key figures behind the attacks as Saifullah @ Sajid Jutt @ Ali @ Habibullah @ Numan @ Langda @ Noumi, Mohd Qasim, and Abu Qatal @ Qatal Sindhi. While Saifullah and Abu Qatal are Pakistani nationals, Qasim had exfiltrated to Pakistan around 2002 to join LeT’s ranks.
The investigations revealed that these operatives played pivotal roles in engineering the conspiracy from Pakistan and executing the attacks on Indian soil. Saifullah, in particular, holds a significant position within LeT, overseeing operations and liaising with other commanders.
Additionally, the chargesheet implicates Nisar Ahmed @ Haji Nisar and Mushtaq Hussain @ Chacha, identified as Overground workers (OGWs) of LeT, who provided crucial logistical support to the terrorists. Both individuals, along with a juvenile accomplice, were apprehended for aiding and abetting the perpetrators. They facilitated the terrorists with food, shelter, and other necessities for approximately three months after the Dhangri attack. Moreover, Nisar received arms, ammunition, and cash from Pakistan-based handlers, further solidifying the link between the perpetrators and their external supporters.
The charges filed include provisions under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and various sections of the Indian Penal Code. While the two adult accused are set to face trial, the fate of the apprehended juvenile will be determined by the Juvenile Justice Board, Rajouri.
The thorough investigations conducted by the NIA have shed light on the intricate network of individuals and organisations involved in perpetrating such heinous acts of terrorism.