SRINAGAR: In a determined move to eliminate the lingering network of separatist and terrorist elements in Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar Police on Thursday carried out targeted searches as part of a larger probe into cases filed under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
According to an official release from the police, the operation was conducted under the ambit of FIR No. 01/2024, registered at Rajbagh Police Station under Sections 10 and 13 of the UAPA. The raids were sanctioned by a formal search warrant issued by the designated court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Srinagar.
The coordinated action was executed in the presence of an Executive Magistrate (1st Class) and included raids at the residences of key affiliates of the banned outfit Tehreek-e-Hurriyat. Among those targeted were Bashir Ahmad Bhat, also known by the alias Peer Saifullaha, son of Ali Mohammad Bhat, originally from Zadoora, Pulwama and currently residing in Rawalpora — presently lodged in Tihar Jail — and Mohammad Ashraf Laya, son of Ghulam Rasool Laya, a native of Jamia Qadeem, Baramulla and now residing in Old Barzulla.
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Police confirmed the recovery of several objectionable items from the house of Bashir Ahmad Bhat. These included organizational literature, letterheads, booklets, and handwritten correspondence directly linked to the case under investigation. All recovered materials were documented and seized lawfully in the presence of the magistrate and a neutral witness, adhering strictly to established legal norms.
The statement emphasized that the inquiry is actively ongoing and further leads are being pursued.
The police spokesperson reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir Police is unwavering in its resolve to uphold law and order in the region. “Anyone found aiding or advancing disruptive, violent, or unlawful objectives will be dealt with firmly and prosecuted under applicable laws,” the statement asserted.
This operation forms part of a broader strategy aimed at breaking the operational and ideological backbone of outlawed groups that continue to pose a challenge to peace and stability in the Union Territory.
