Jammu and Kashmir: Investigation agency chargesheets 12 terror accused over killing of a Kashmiri Pandit

State Investigation Agency (SIA) in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has chargesheeted 12 terror accused in a case of killing of a Kashmiri Pandit. Sanjay Sharma was killed last year in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. The case, initially registered in a police station in Litter, Pulwama was later transferred to SIA Kashmir for investigation.

According to the State Investigation Agency (SIA), the crime took place at Achhan Pulwama on February 26, 2023. Subsequent investigation revealed a broader conspiracy originating from across the border.

"The aim was to disrupt the revival of peace and communal harmony in the valley, using the murder of an innocent person from the minority community to fuel communal disharmony and sustain terrorism. Upon taking over the case, SIA Kashmir conducted extensive searches across south Kashmir, unearthing vital physical and technical evidence. This evidence exposed the accused persons' involvement in the crime, including providing logistical support, harboring the accused, and concealing evidence," said an SIA Official.

Add WION as a Preferred Source

Watch | Ram Mandir: Ayodhya all decked up as countdown begins for consecration ceremony

During the course of investigation, SIA conducted 5 rounds of extensive searches at 32 locations across the valley during which mobile devices, incriminating documents like bank records and a pistol with live cartridges were seized.

Also Read | Indian defence minister hints China might weaponise weather for strategic gains

The investigation revealed that the accused individuals were acting on instructions from terror handlers across the border in Pakistan. They were maintaining communication via encrypted online messaging platforms.

Also Read | Ayodhya: Anti-terrorist squad arrests men allegedly awaiting terrorist Pannun's instruction

According to the State Investigation Agency (SIA), a man named Jazim Farooq Wani pulled the trigger and received weapons handling training from Nassir Farooq Shah after directions from Pakistani handler Khalid Kamran.

"SIA Kashmir reaffirms to follow the case vigorously in the court of law. The investigation of the case shall continue, and SIA is committed to ensure all the accused who have been a part of the crime in any way are brought to justice," said the agency.