Local Cattle Trader Provided Logistics Support to Reasi Attack Terrorists, Get Paid Rs 5,000

On June 9th, a serene bus journey carrying Hindu pilgrims through Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, turned into a nightmare as a terrorist attack claimed the lives of nine individuals and left many others injured. The investigation into this gruesome attack has unveiled a chilling conspiracy involving local resident Hakam Din, a 45-year-old cattle trader from Rajouri district, who played a pivotal role in providing logistical support to the perpetrators.

Hakam Din's connection with the terrorists began on June 1st, when three Pakistani militants appeared at his doorstep around 5:30 pm, seeking food and shelter. Din, a simple cattle trader, was soon drawn into their deadly plot. One of the terrorists, referred to as ‘Manzoor bhai’ by his companions, led the interactions. They asked Din to deliver food to their hideout in a nearby forest, initiating a series of meetings that would culminate in the tragic attack.

By June 7th, the terrorists had gained Din's trust to the extent that they took him along on a reconnaissance mission to Pouni, the eventual site of the attack. The group spent over three hours meticulously scouting the area, identifying strategic points along the road where the bus would slow down, making it an easy target. Din's local knowledge proved invaluable as they marked these locations and gathered information about the movement of tourist buses.

The day before the attack, the terrorists once again visited Din's house, this time for tea. They finalized their plan and left with supplies provided by Din. On June 9th, they executed their deadly mission with chilling precision. Targeting a specific bus carrying pilgrims, they first shot the driver, causing the bus to lose control and plummet into a gorge. The relentless gunfire continued even as the bus crashed, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.

In return for his assistance, Din received Rs 5,000 and was instructed to flee the area. The terrorists also took his Aadhaar card, promising to return. However, Din's arrest and subsequent interrogation by multiple agencies have provided crucial leads. He revealed detailed descriptions of the terrorists, enabling the authorities to prepare sketches of two additional suspects. This adds to the existing sketch of a third attacker, who is the subject of a Rs 20 lakh reward for information leading to his capture.

Investigators, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA), believe that the terrorists infiltrated from across the Line of Control and are now hiding in the dense forests of the region. The hunt for the remaining suspects is intensifying, with the aim of bringing all those involved to justice.

The case of Hakam Din underscores the complexities of counter-terrorism efforts in regions plagued by militant activities. It highlights how local residents can be coerced or convinced into aiding terrorists, often with disastrous consequences. As the investigation continues, authorities remain vigilant, determined to prevent further attacks and dismantle the networks that support them.