J&K Police Names Pahalgam Attackers, Offers ₹20 Lakh Reward
In a major breakthrough following the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 civilians dead, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have publicly identified three key suspects involved in the deadly assault. The attackers have been named as Adil Hussain Thoker, a resident of Anantnag, along with two foreign terrorists identified by their aliases—Hashim Musa alias Suleiman, and Ali Bhai alias Talha Bhai.
To support the ongoing investigation and accelerate their capture, authorities have announced a ₹20 lakh reward for any credible information leading to their arrest. The release of these names and sketches is part of a larger strategy to harness public vigilance and ensure justice for the victims of the brutal attack.
The shooting took place on April 22 in the Baisaran meadow, a picturesque but vulnerable tourist area near Pahalgam. Armed terrorists opened fire on a group of vacationers, marking one of the most horrific attacks in the region since Pulwama in 2019.
J&K Police Reward
The ₹20 lakh reward announced by the Jammu and Kashmir Police is intended to encourage citizens to come forward with tips that could help apprehend the attackers. By releasing names and facial sketches, the police have signaled their intent to involve local communities in the search and to leave no stone unturned in tracking down the perpetrators.
The reward not only acts as an incentive for information but also demonstrates the seriousness with which security agencies are treating the case. Authorities believe the suspects are still in the region and may be receiving local support to evade capture.
This step also sends a message to potential collaborators and sympathizers: aiding terrorists will not go unnoticed or unpunished.
Terrorist Identification
The identification of the three suspects has been the result of coordinated intelligence gathering between local law enforcement, central agencies, and counterterror units. It is believed that at least five individuals were involved in the attack—three of them Pakistani nationals and two locals from Jammu and Kashmir.
The sketches released are based on eyewitness accounts and surveillance inputs. Investigators believe the attackers may be part of a larger module supported by Pakistan-based terrorist organizations, most notably Lashkar-e-Taiba.
The attackers are also suspected of using advanced tactics, including encrypted communications and body-worn cameras to record the attack, likely for propaganda purposes.
As the manhunt intensifies, security forces have launched sweeping operations across the Pir Panjal range, bolstered by aerial surveillance and intelligence coordination. Authorities continue to urge citizens to report any suspicious activity and assure complete confidentiality and safety for whistleblowers.
The public identification of these terrorists marks a crucial step in ensuring accountability, delivering justice to the victims, and reaffirming India’s resolve to crush terrorism at its roots.
