
Security agencies on Wednesday released sketches of three terrorists believed to be responsible for Tuesday's devastating attack near Pahalgam in south Kashmir that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.
The black and white pencil sketches depict three young, bearded men identified as Asif Fauji, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha.
Officials released that these terrorists have operated under code names- Moosa, Yunus, and Asif and are also linked to the terror incident in Poonch. The survivors of this massive terror attack have helped the agencies in preparing the sketches of the terrorist
TRF Claims Responsibility
The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow outfit of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group, has claimed responsibility for Tuesday's attack. Security experts note that TRF has emerged as one of the most active terror outfits in the region over recent years.
Among the 26 victims were two foreigners from the UAE and Nepal, as well as two local residents. Several others sustained injuries in the attack at one of Kashmir's prime tourist destinations.
High-Level Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his state visit to Saudi Arabia and immediately convened a meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar upon his arrival at Delhi airport on Wednesday to assess the situation.
Home Minister Amit Shah, who rushed to Srinagar on Tuesday night, met with survivors and assured them that those responsible for the "dastardly act" would be brought to justice.
Massive Manhunt Underway= Security forces have launched a massive manhunt across south Kashmir to track down the perpetrators. An NIA team headed by an inspector general is en route to Pahalgam to assist local police with the investigation.
"We are utilizing all available intelligence and technological resources to track down these terrorists," a senior security official told reporters on condition of anonymity. "The sketches released today should help in their identification and capture."
The attack has dealt a severe blow to Kashmir's tourism industry, which had been showing signs of revival in recent years. Hotel associations report widespread cancellations as tourists flee the region following Tuesday's violence.
Kashmir's Chief Minister described the exodus of tourists as "heartbreaking" and assured visitors that security measures were being significantly enhanced across all tourist destinations in the Valley.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals matching the description of the three suspects.
View this post on Instagram