Srinagar, May 11 (KDC): In a major counter-terror operation, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) on Saturday claimed to have busted multiple sleeper cells allegedly working in coordination with Pakistan-based handlers and carried out raids at around 20 locations across South Kashmir, officials said
According to a statement issued by the State Investigation Agency (SIA) to Srinagar-based news gathering agency Kashmir Dot Com, the Jammu and Kashmir Police is keeping close surveillance on terror associates and overground workers (OGWs) operating in the Valley, as technical intelligence has revealed the presence of sleeper cells directly in contact with Pakistan-based handlers.
“Several of these entities were involved in passing sensitive and strategic information about security forces and vital installations through encrypted messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. The statement further added that these operatives were also engaged in online radical propaganda at the behest of terrorist commanders from proscribed outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad, posing a grave threat to national security and integrity,” the statement said.
In connection with the investigation of case FIR No. 01/2025 under sections 13, 17, 18, 18-B, 38, and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, registered at Police Station CI/SIA Kashmir, the agency on May 11 carried out coordinated searches at around 20 locations across all districts of South Kashmir.
The SIA said substantial incriminating material was seized during the raids, and several suspects were detained for further questioning.
“Preliminary investigation has clearly established that the identified individuals were actively involved in a terrorist conspiracy, promoting and advancing anti-India narratives. Their activities were aimed at undermining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India, while also inciting public disorder, disaffection, and communal hatred,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment, the SIA added, “The agency remains steadfast in safeguarding national security and maintaining public order and will continue to act firmly against all elements involved in any form of secessionist or terrorist activity.” (KDC)
