More than a week after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran valley, which killed 26 people, sources from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) say the terrorists are still hiding in South Kashmir. The investigation suggests that more attackers may be present in the region.

According to sources tracking the case, the terrorists involved in the April 22 attack were not acting alone. They believe other terrorists were nearby, staying at a distance, possibly to provide cover fire if the security forces had responded quickly.

The attackers were highly self-sufficient, carrying their own food and supplies. This allowed them to survive in the forest without needing any help from outside.

Survivors and eyewitnesses have given statements that describe how carefully the attack was planned and carried out. Tourists in the Baisaran meadow, a popular spot also known as 'mini Switzerland', were trapped inside the park. The attackers blocked both the entry and exit gates, making it difficult for people to escape.

Tourists targeted; Navy officer among first victims

Sources say four terrorists were involved. Two entered through the main gate, one stood near the exit, and another was hiding in the nearby pine forest. The hidden terrorist is suspected to have been ready to give backup if needed.

Three of the attackers started firing at the tourists. Many people were enjoying pony rides, snacks, or picnics when the attack began. Two terrorists were wearing army uniforms, while another wore a traditional Kashmiri pheran.

The first shots were fired near the exit gate. As people ran toward the entrance, they were caught by the attackers waiting there. Eyewitnesses say the terrorists tried to separate women from men and Hindus from Muslims. When the crowd did not cooperate, the attackers asked people to recite the Kalma (Islamic declaration of faith). Soon after, they began shooting randomly.

One of the first to be shot was Navy officer Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, who had just walked in through the entry gate.

Most of the deaths happened near the tea and bhelpuri stalls, where many tourists were standing. After the attack, the terrorists escaped by jumping over a wall on the left side of the park.

Terrorists used advanced messaging tech

Investigators say the attackers used a high-tech communication system that doesn’t need a SIM card. This tool allows short-range encrypted messages to be sent, making it very hard for police and agencies to track or listen to them in real time.

 

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