Lashkar-e-Taiba Operative Abu Qatal, Nephew of Hafiz Saeed, Killed in Pakistan
Abu Qatal, also known as Faisal Nadeem, a senior Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative and nephew of 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Pakistan’s Jhelum area on Saturday night.
Qatal was implicated in orchestrating several terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, including the January 2023 Rajouri attack and the June 9, 2024, assault on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims in Reasi district. These attacks resulted in multiple casualties and heightened security concerns in the region.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had charged Qatal and other Pakistan-based LeT commanders for their roles in these attacks, highlighting their involvement in recruiting and infiltrating terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir to target civilians and security forces.
Qatal’s death marks a significant development in counter-terrorism efforts, given his close association with Hafiz Saeed and his leadership within LeT. Indian security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.
