Srinagar: The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which has been entrusted with the probe into the June 9 terror attack on Hindu pilgrim bus in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, has searched multiple locations in the adjoining Rajouri district where the terrorists had been sheltered.
Nine people, including children, were killed and over 40 were injured after a terrorist fired at the bus which was ferrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori, known for its revered shrine, to Katra. The firing resulted in the instant killing of the driver, after which the bus lost control and fell into a deep gorge in Pouni area.
Most of the victims were pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan.
According to eye witnesses, there were two more terrorists present along with the one who attacked the bus.
Jammu and Kashmir Police has already arrested one local person Hakam Din of Rajouri who provided logistical support, including shelter, to the three terrorists from Pakistan.
NIA took over the investigation on June 15 following orders from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
Teams of NIA have searched 5 locations linked with hybrid terrorists and Overground Workers (OGWs), officials said.
The locations where the NIA conducted searches were identified by Hakam Din.
“The searches, conducted as part of the NIA probe in the case (RC-02/2024/NIA/JMU), led to the seizure of various items showing linkages between the terrorists and OGWs,” NIA statement said.
NIA has started examining the seized material to unravel the terror conspiracy.
Earlier, the NIA team had visited the spot where the terror attack took place.
According to eye witnesses, the three terrorists were deliberately waiting for a pilgrim bus to attack it on the ill-fated day.
