Pahalgam Massacre: Terrorists Arrived In J&K Days Before Attack, Also Conducted Recce Of Other Tourists Spots, Say Reports

Srinagar: Terrorists had arrived in Jammu and Kashmir days before the Pahalgam terror attack, according to media reports. They had reportedly reached Pahalgam carried out a reconnaissance of three locations in the area on April 15, reported India Today citing sources.

The media report claimed that one of the terrorists surveyed the amusement park in Pahalgam. However, the plan to attack the amusement park was dropped due to tight security arrangements.

The sources told India Today that the terrorists used an ultra-state communication system during the attack. With the help of this system, the terrorists communicated without using SIM cards.

Meanwhile, another report claimed that the terrorists who carried out the attack were present at the Baisaran Valley two days before the attack. As per NDTV report based on sources, one of the arrested Over Ground Workers (OGWs) linked to the attack revealed the presence of the terrorists at Baisaran two days prior to the Pahalgam massacre.

Apart from Baisaran Valley, the terrorists had also conducted reconnaissance of Aru Valley, the local amusement park, and Betaab Valley, reported NDTV. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is leading the probe into the terror attack. At least 20 OGWs were reportedly involved in the attack. As per reports, they helped the terrorists with reconnaissance and logistical support.

Pahalgam Attack:

On April 22, five to six terrorists opened fire at tourists at Baisaran meadows near Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. A total of 26 people, including a local pony guide were killed in the attack. Most of the people killed were tourists. As per eyewitnesses, terrorists singled out Hindu males and shot them dead.

Initially, Pakistan-based terror organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba's (LeT's) offshoot The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility for the attack. However, as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the attack, the TRF denied its role.