Srinagar, Aug 17: The State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir has apprehended an individual accused of involvement in a narco-terror network, who had been absconding for nearly four years. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to dismantle operations that allegedly channel drug proceeds into financing militant activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Narco-Terror Operative Apprehended in Jammu
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Manoj Kumar Bhat, also known as Pintu, a resident of Rehari Colony, Bakshi Nagar, Jammu, was arrested in a special operation conducted by SIA Kashmir in Jammu. Bhat is a key figure wanted in connection with FIR No. 13/2022, registered by SIA Kashmir on June 3, 2022. This case pertains to the alleged smuggling of narcotics from across the Line of Control (LoC) and the subsequent use of the sale proceeds to fund militant activities.
Nexus with Pakistan-Based Operatives
The investigation has indicated a broader narco-terror conspiracy allegedly supported by operatives based in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), associated with the militant organisation Hizbul Mujahideen. The modus operandi involves the trafficking of narcotics into Jammu and Kashmir, their distribution through an established network, and the channelling of generated funds to sustain and expand the militant ecosystem.
Manoj Kumar Bhat, who had evaded arrest for approximately four years since the case’s inception, was apprehended due to sustained technical surveillance, human intelligence gathering, and coordinated investigative efforts by SIA Kashmir. He is alleged to have played a crucial role in facilitating the sale and distribution of narcotics within the Jammu division, thereby contributing to the financial infrastructure of the larger narco-terror network.
Investigators have established links between Bhat and Pakistan/PoK-based militant handlers, including Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo, alias Kandoo, from Sopore, and Manzoor Ahmad Khan, from Baramulla. These individuals are accused of arranging and facilitating the trafficking of narcotics from PoK, which were then collected, distributed, and sold via the network operating within Jammu and Kashmir.
The investigation is particularly notable for highlighting the pattern of narco-terror financing, where proceeds from drug trafficking are allegedly diverted to support militant operations. This approach underscores how militant ecosystems exploit the drug trade as a covert funding source. SIA Kashmir aims to financially cripple and dismantle the support structures sustaining militancy by targeting the entire chain, from cross-LoC drug trafficking to local distribution and financial proceeds.
Case Background and Recoveries
The case originated with the recovery of 1 kilogram of heroin from Zeeshan Ahmad Sofi and Waseem Ahmad Khan at Nowpora, Sopore. Subsequent investigations led to the recovery of 7 kilograms of poppy straw and 4 kilograms of poppy seeds. Earlier, SIA Kashmir had also recovered 15 grams of heroin from the residential premises of Manoj Kumar Bhat. A motorcycle and electronic gadgets have also been seized and are undergoing forensic and technical examination.
SIA Kashmir has filed multiple chargesheets before the competent court against several individuals in connection with this case. These include Zeeshan Ahmad Sofi, Waseem Ahmad Khan, Bashir Ahmad Koli, Mohammad Ashraf Lone, Mohammad Saleem Khan, and Zafraan Khan, all allegedly involved in the narco-terror network.
Interpol Red Corner Notice Secured
In a related development, SIA Kashmir has secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice against Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo, a militant handler and alleged narco-terror kingpin based in Pakistan, in a separate terror-related case. This action reflects the agency’s continued efforts to pursue Pakistan-based handlers and other fugitives orchestrating and financing militant activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
The apprehension of Manoj Kumar Bhat is expected to provide further insights into the conspiracy, help identify additional linkages, trace financial trails, and establish the complete connection between narcotics trafficking and terror financing. SIA Kashmir has reiterated its commitment to dismantling the terror ecosystem and bringing all involved individuals to justice.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
