Sketches of terrorists behind Pahalgam terror attack released

Security agencies released sketches of the suspected terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack, which killed at least 27 tourists. The three identified suspects are Asif Fuji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha.

The attackers, affiliated with The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) group, targeted tourists in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Kashmir in recent years.

At least five to seven terrorists wearing camouflage outfits and kurta-pyjamas came from the dense pine forest and opened fire on tourists with AK-47.

The attack is being viewed as a part of a larger conspiracy by Pakistan, which seems to be the latest step in a more comprehensive terror campaign before the Amarnath Yatra, according to security officials. 

The officials say that the groups have now reportedly changed tactics, organising smaller strike teams that are attacking civilians.

WATCH | Breaking | Pahalgam terror attack: Sketches of 3 terrorists released by security agencies

'We have absolutely nothing to do with it,' says Pakistan

Pakistan-based terrorists fired at innocent civilians in India's Jammu and Kashmir, and the world reacted with shock.

However, Pakistan reacted to the attack a day after it took place, and that too, without condemnation like other world leaders.

There was no reaction from Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who is away on a tour of Turkey. The reaction came from the foreign ministry of Pakistan and a minister.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said, “Pakistan has no link with the Pagalgam terror attack," claiming that it was a reaction by those who opposed the Indian government, citing unrest in regions like Nagaland, Kashmir, and Manipur.

Describing the attack as "homegrown," he said, "the Central government in India is facing protests in many states, including Nagaland, Manipur, Kashmir, and Chhattisgarh. This is home-grown as the government is exploiting many."

“We do not support terrorism in any form, and locals should not be a target for terrorists, and we have no doubt about it," he said.

“However, if local forces are targeting the Indian government, it becomes easy to target Pakistan," Asif asserted.

Another statement by the Pakistani Foreign Ministry, devoid of any condemnation, said, "We are concerned about the loss of tourists’ lives in an attack in the Anantnag district [propaganda terminology]. We extend our condolences to the near ones of the deceased and wish the injured a speedy recovery".