NIA Court Frames Charges in Major Terror Funding Case in J\&K; CIK Uncovers Deep-Rooted LeT Network

Srinagar, August 7:
In a major breakthrough in the fight against the terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, the Special Court designated under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act in Srinagar has framed charges in a high-profile terror funding case, marking a significant success for Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) of J\&K Police.

The case (FIR No. 02/2024 of Police Station CIK) involves multiple charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) Sections 13, 38, 39, and 40, along with Section 120-B of the Indian Penal Code. The court has framed charges against two accused: Shabir Ahmad Bhat, son of Gh. Mohammad Bhat, resident of Khadermoh Kakapora, Javaid Ahmad Yatoo, son of Ab. Majeed, resident of Patalbagh Pampore.

Criminal proceedings have also been initiated against absconding Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) handler Sumama, alias Babar, alias Ilyas, who played a central role in the transnational conspiracy.

According to CIK, the case uncovered a meticulously planned terror financing module operating with the support of LeT commanders across the Line of Control and Pakistani nationals based in Gulf countries. Funds were funneled into J\&K through a covert hawala network using couriers disguised as Umrah pilgrims, expatriates, and businessmen.

Investigations revealed that Shabir Ahmad Bhat maintained secure communication with the LeT handler using encrypted messaging apps. While on Umrah in Saudi Arabia, Bhat allegedly received large sums in Saudi Riyals from known LeT associates in Madina. He then coordinated with other Kashmiri Umrah pilgrims to collect and smuggle funds back to Kashmir, where they were converted into Indian currency and distributed among active terrorists and their families on the handler’s instructions.

Co-accused Javaid Ahmad Yatoo reportedly played a key role in establishing links between Bhat and the LeT handler in Pakistan, facilitating the smooth functioning of the terror funding pipeline.

The court’s framing of charges has been described by officials as a “milestone” in CIK’s sustained crackdown on terror financing networks. CIK said the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led, legally sound investigations in targeting the financial arteries of terrorism.

Further developments in the case have led to the arrest of two more individuals: Mohammad Ayoub Bhat, resident of Kothipora Chattergam, Budgam, Mohammad Rafiq Shah, resident of HIG Colony, Green Park, Qamarwari, Srinagar.

These arrests yielded crucial evidence, including electronic devices, bank records, transaction logs, and other documents that point to a covert hawala infrastructure sustaining terrorism in the region.

Officials say more arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.
CIK reaffirmed its commitment to “relentlessly pursue all individuals and networks involved in facilitating terrorism financially or otherwise,” asserting its role as a frontline agency in the Government’s counter-terrorism architecture.