LeT terror associates behind TRC grenade held: IGP Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 08: Police have arrested three terror associates of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) involved in the November 3 grenade attack at the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) in Srinagar, which left 12 civilians injured. The arrested individuals have been booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), police said on Friday.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi, confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects were in communication with Pakistan-based handlers. The grenade attack, which occurred around 2:10 pm on November 3, targeted a crowded Sunday market in Srinagar, injuring local shoppers and vendors.
“Among the 12 injured, Abida Jan from Naidkhai Sumbal is in critical condition and is currently undergoing treatment at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar. Another victim, Habibullah from Bandipora, is also seriously injured, with a bedridden son at home,” said IGP Birdi.
Following the attack, the Srinagar police formed special investigation teams, leading to the registration of an FIR (No. 66/2024) at Kothibagh Police Station under various sections of the UAPA, Explosive Substances Act, and other related provisions.
The police launched an extensive investigation, questioning several suspects based on insights from local residents and stakeholders. This ultimately led to the identification and arrest of three individuals—Usama Yaseen Sheikh (28), Umar Fayaz Sheikh (25), and Afnan Mansoor Naik (27), all residents of Ikhrajpora, Srinagar.
“Usama Sheikh, who had previously been arrested in 2018 for terror-related activities, was the primary executor of the grenade attack. The other two suspects provided logistical support and conducted reconnaissance,” Birdi said.
The police further revealed that the three were acting under the guidance of two identified handlers of the Pakistan-based LeT terrorist group.
“We are withholding the identities of the handlers at this stage as the investigation is ongoing. Further arrests are expected as we continue our efforts,” the IGP said.
He emphasized that the grenade attack was an attempt to disrupt the livelihoods of local people, but assured that the police would continue to uphold peace in the region. “No one will be allowed to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere, and the long arms of the law will reach all those involved,” IGP Birdi concluded.